Several years ago I was asked to become certified in mold inspections. Everyone was claiming that it was the new plastics. In fact, it seems everywhere I went I saw "Mold is Gold!" plastered on windows, cars, and lawsuits. Mold, of course, reached its zenith a few years ago. Even my competitors are no longer doing mold inspections.

Ah, but you knew there was more to this story, right? Seems that the new mold goes by the name "Chinese drywall." Like everything else the Chinese are making for the world markets -- maybe even specifically for the U.S. markets? -- toys with lots of lead in the paint, contaminated baby milk, contaminated pet food, etc. -- Chinese drywall seems to have some problems associated with it.

Once a high-profile person has problems with something, that's when it really makes the soundbites on your local news. Recently, New Orleans Saits head coach Sean Payton announced that he is suing the drywall manufacturer, the supplier, and the home builder due to problems in his suburban New Orleans home: electrical devices kept failing, his wife's silver jewelry turned black, 14 air conditioning service calls, five computer failures, three microwave oven panel failures, and "a whole set of phone lines replaced."

I would get certified to inspect drywall, but all one needs to do is determine if "KNAUF" or "Knauf plasterboard (Tianjin)" is anywhere on the drywall. Unfortunately, that often requires tearing open all the walls, and who wants to do that? You could try looking in the attic to see if the backs of any drywall are visible.

Chinese drywall apparently releases gases which, when combined with water or moisture in the air, can cause copper to corrode and fail. Copper, of course, is used in lots of electrical wiring applications. So if you start having a lot of electrical failures, suspect Chinese drywall, especially if your home was built in 2004 or 2005.

Yet one more way is the smell. If your house smells like rotten eggs, all the time, you probably have Chinese drywall in your home.

NBC News has the best summary about Chinese drywall that I've found.

*****

This week's posts

1. WWW (Wordless Wednesday with Words): Flap your wings and off you go! - 6/30/09
2. The mostest helpfullest Seller ever! - 6/30/09
3. Bigger is not always better - 6/30/09
4. My mostest uniquest foundation crawl space ever - 6/29/09
5. My uniquest attic ever - 6/29/09

Last week's posts

1. SST (Speechless Sunday with Text): How to increase your home insurance premium - 6/28/09
2. How to easily help your house burn down - 6/27/09
3. I don't inspect heliports - 6/26/09
4. ActiveRain commenting etiquette: HELP! - 6/26/09 (Featured)
5. How to make the most of your day - 6/25/09
6. WWW (Wordless Wednesday With Words): It's nice to be taken care of - 6/24/09
7. Why we need tort reform - 6/23/09
8. Your electrical panel is not there to cause problems, it's there to prevent them - 6/22/09
9. Unsolvable problems? Look at it differently. The answer is there. - 6/22/09

Is this not the most beautiful lizard you have ever seen in your life? - 6/21/09

A California home inspection first for me - 6/21/09

SST (Speechless Sunday with Text): You take my chair, I take your pillow.... - 6/21/09

ActiveRain brings us back together after a six-year split - 6/20/09

Balboa Park water lily slide show - 6/20/09

Viking Range refrigerator recall - 6/20/09

Foto Friday: It just takes a little balance. I know I can do it. - 6/19/09

Camera review: Canon EOS Rebel XSi - 6/18/09

WWW (Wordless Wednesday with Words): Takin' it easy - 6/17/09

How to have fun when the Realtor is late.... - 6/16/09

Do you have a yellow thingy? - 6/15/09

 

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Over the past few months, owners of newer homes nationwide have been complaining of drywall that smells like rotten eggs. In several cases, they have had to leave their home because the smell was so bad. In addition to the putrid smell, many homeowners have reported problems with air conditioning and other systems that are likely related to the defective Chinese drywall.  This is being called the next EIFS like disaster in the real estate market!

Many have spent hundreds and even thousands of dollars - to have air conditioning, pipes and wiring repaired. Usually, drywall is manufactured in the United States, but a shortage between 2001 and 2007 prompted many builders to buy drywall from China.

Most of the reported problems stem from drywall imported from China during the construction boom years of 2002-2006. Florida and the Gulf Coast states have been the first to report and have issue with this drywall showing up but it also showing up in non-coastal areas.

Knauf Plasterboard Tianjin Co. Ltd. of China, a subsidiary of German-based manufacturer Knauf, is the company at the focus of these drywall problems. If your newer home smells like sulfur or rotten eggs, you may have defective Chinese drywall. The problem is coming from coal ash that was mixed into the gypsum drywall compound. One source of tainted materials appears that China was attempting to get rid of their coal ash problems by mixing it with the drywall compound. When the drywall is exposed to moisture, such as high humidity a chemical reaction starts. The result of this reaction is the production of Hydrogen Sulfide and Sulfuric acid gas. This is the rotten egg smell that is present with the drywall.

The difficulty for inspectors is that walls may have been built with drywall from as many as four sources — so simply pulling one clean sample is no guarantee of safety. Many times the supplies can be tracked where they were used by licensed builders. At this time it is possible although not likely that the builders insurance may pay for the damages.

This drywall is responsible for the destruction of the copper coils in HVAC units in the homes that it has been installed in. The corrosive off gassing is also responsible for damaging many other components in the homes from the copper electrical to the nails and screws that are holding everything together in the home.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said it was investigating complaints about the Chinese-made drywall. All houses affected have shown a common symptom — blackened, scorched wiring behind switch plates, damaged A/C coils and damaged wall plugs — along with homeowner health symptoms, that's allowed research to proceed,

If you think that you might have Chinese Drywall, you should contact a reputable home inspector who is familiar with this problem. As this problem is just starting to rear its ugly head, many are not aware of this problem. If you want to learn more, just do a Google search on Chinese Drywall and you will find pages of information on it.  Information can also be found on my website

Fox TV 17 News story on Chinese drywall

 

Good news about Chinese Drywall is not good enough.

Yesterday I posted a blog More good news on Chinese Drywall but I soon learned that the good news about Chinese Drywall is not good enough.  About fifteen minutes after I posted the blog yesterday I received a call from a homeowner who owns a home with Chinese Drywall. She had received notification from a google alert for Chinese Drywall about my blog.  When she read my blog she immediately called me to enlighten me about the situation.  The money available from the state disaster relief fund to help homeowners with Chinese Drywall is $150,000. There are hundreds of homes in Virginia with Chinese Drywall; $150,000 is not enough to provide relief to the home owners.

 

 

So is there an answer for these homeowners?  I don't know. I do know that there is a class action suit in Virginia and I suspect there are suits in other areas of the country.  If you have any ideas of things that will help, contact me.  I will put you in touch with a homeowner who has Chinese Drywall to offer our help!  

If you know of resources that can help homeowners with Chinese Drywall, either leave a comment here or call Sybil Campbell 757-897-5889 if you have ideas.

 

 

 

 

Sybil Campbell, REALTOR®, ABR, SRES 

Long and Foster REALTORS®  

(757) 897-5889

WHATEVER THE DIRECTION SYBIL CAN HELP YOU LOCATE THE HOME OF YOUR DREAMS

                                     
www.buywilliamsburghomes.com

sybilcampbell@cox.net

licensed in the commonwealth of Virginia

Carlsbad, CA–It appears owners of San Diego real estate–and those who remodeled their homes in 2003-2005, may have been spared the corrosive and noxious results that can stem from certain Chinese drywall products.

Most of the sulphur-laden Chinese drywall was shipped in 2004-2005 to Hurricane Katrina-ravaged states that were trying to repair and rebuild their storm damaged homes.

Florida, Louisiana and other states battered by Hurricane Katrina are facing a secondary assault– this time from poisonous  Chinese drywall that was imported to help bolster supplies needed for repair and construction of homes damaged by the hurricane. It was also apparently used during the building boom that exploded across the country during the early and mid-2000’s.

But what about San Diego real estate and the homes constructed during the building boom?

It appears San Diego homes may have dodged the sulphur bullet.

Even so, how can you tell if you have toxic Chinese drywall in your home or business?

Continue reading here

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Chinese Drywall Removal Protocols - 4/16/2010

Via Douglas Wall, CIE, CRMI (Radon & Mold Professionals):

Some of the most respected professionals in the environmental field have been working on developing a protocol for removing Chinese (reactive) Drywall.   Problem "Chinese" drywall has been called "odorous" drywall but the new term "reactive" drywall seems to be a more accurate description of the problem drywall since some has very little or no odor.

http://www.chinesedrywallprotocol.org/

"THE FLORIDA PROFESSIONAL COALITION FOR CHINESE (REACTIVE) DRYWALL"  has drafted a protocol which should be published for peer review soon.  The "Chinese Drywall Removal Protocol Peer Review Seminar" sponsored by the IAQA Ft Lauderdale Chapter and Florida Atlantic University discussed the 4^th draft of this living document.  Well over 250 IAQ professionals attended the workshop.

"IV. Building a Team to Fix this Problem By matter of unfortunate predicament, should a home owner find themselves in a position without a responsible builder to remedy the situation, they need to build a "team" to help solve the problem-not the least which should include:

·         A Certified Indoor Environmentalist or Industrial Hygienist experienced in dealing with Chinese (reactive) drywall / chemical exposure issues ....."

Until the protocols are released, consumers should be aware that cleanup / removal of Chinese (reactive) drywall is best performed by companies familiar with and equipped to do "micro cleaning" of the structure.

Sending air samples to a lab for analysis appears to be unreliable.

Remember if your inspector cannot get Errors and Omissions to cover Chinese drywall inspections maybe you need a different inspector.

Home Inspector E&O doe NOT cover Chinese drywall inspections.

http://www.radonmoldhelp.com/id118.html

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CHINESE DRYWALL - CANCER CLUSTER - UNEXPLODED ORDINANCE - WHEN THERE IS NO BUYER AT ANY PRICE - 4/16/2010

Via Richard Zaretsky, Florida Real Estate Attorney (Richard P. Zaretsky P.A. ):

What happens when there is no buyer for your property at ANY price because a literal buyer disaster has occurred in your neighborhood?  In the past 2 years, mortgage crisis and real estate value meltdown notwithstanding, three events keep showing up in my Florida office: 

            1.  Chinese Drywall homes where the family has to move out because they are sick and the house is inhospitable to not only the family but to all the mechanicals inside (wire, metal studs, appliances)

            2.   Loxahatchee (Acreage) Cancer Cluster where the rate of brain tumors in children is alarmingly high, making raising a young family (or any family) in that area life threatening

            3.  An Orlando community where they have discovered the land was used to train aircraft pilots and crew how to drop bombs, but the Air Force failed to remove the defective unexploded ordinance ("UXO").

If there is no buyer then even a short sale will not work because it takes at least 3 parties for a short sale to occur - the seller, the buyer and the seller's lender(s).  See Short Sale Trilogy.

Each of the situations above are environmental in nature.  Each has a cause. But that is about the end of the similarities.  In the UXO situations the government is always to blame, but the remediation can take years and it may not be deemed so dangerous as to cause the government to effectively have taken the land and thus have to compensate the homeowners for their loss (meaning having the them move out, in the nature of a condemnation or "taking").  Mere temporary diminution of value may not be compensable.

The drywall debacle has a culprit - the drywall manufacturer.  But this is a company in a foreign land and successfully collecting on a judgment against the manufacturer could be problematic. It is far easier to seek damages from the supplier or the contractor or both, but those parties may have been without knowledge of defective materials and in the case of the contractor, may not be in business anymore.  Regardless, a lawsuit and the length of proceedings are not going to help a homeowner that had to obtain alternative housing and still pay the mortgage on the defective home.  Is this a matter that the government should step into as providing a remedial lifeline to such homeowners?  Thus far the government has made inquiries and investigations, but no financial help to such homeowners affected by this problem

Lastly, the cancer cluster is now recognized, but who is to blame is anyone's guess.  Is it the water, the soil, man made contaminants, naturally occurring contaminants, external causes?  No one is likely to know for years, if ever, where the blame should be fixed - or even if there is anything to really fix a blame for.  Why are only children affected and why only brain cancers?  If this is a "Love Canal" scenario, then the government can take various actions from clean up to condemnation.  But just like the Chinese Drywall, what is a homeowner to do about paying for two homes when barely one can be afforded?

In the midst of these crisis is the home lender.  In these situations anyone would be hard pressed to say that the problem was caused by the lender. (Well, maybe some would say without the lenders the developers could not have built the lots and homes and without the lenders the homeowners could not have purchased the homes - so it is the lenders' fault the homeowners are in this predicament).  The lenders did make the loans (in good faith, we presume) and they are thus entitled to be repaid.

These apparent catastrophes put homeowners in the position of deciding to default on their mortgages through non-payment or to seek short sales or deeds in lieu.  If (and that is a BIG IF) there is a clear solution with a definite timeline, perhaps a lender would abate the loan (that is "delay" or "stay" the mortgage loan) payments based on the property becoming habitable once again in the foreseeable future.  This is a theory, not a plan that is in action.

Maybe the lenders could take a deed to the home with an assignment of the expected government condemnation award.  But expecting lenders to not enforce some return of loaned capital in most cases is not a realistic expectation, and borrowers should not anticipate this type of solution.

Disasters come in many forms and in large and small proportions.  These examples usually avoid solutions to the dismay and the eventual financial hardship upon the homeowners affected.  There simply are no quick nor easy solutions.

Copyright 2010 Richard P. Zaretsky, Esq.

Be sure to contact your own attorney for your state laws, and always consult your own attorney on any legal decision you need to make.  This article is for information purposes and is not specific advice to any one reader.

Richard Zaretsky, Esq., RICHARD P. ZARETSKY P.A. ATTORNEYS AT LAW, 1655 PALM BEACH LAKES BLVD, SUITE 900, WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA 33401, PHONE 561 689 6660  RPZ99@Florida-Counsel.com - FLORIDA BAR BOARD CERTIFIED IN REAL ESTATE LAW - We assist Brokers and Sellers with Short Sales and Modifications and Consult with Brokers and Sellers Nationwide!  Shortsales@Florida-Counsel.com  New Website www.Florida-Counsel.com. 

See our easy to understand articles at:

TABLE OF CONTENTS - SHORT SALE AND LOAN MODIFICATION ARTICLES

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Chinese Drywall update - 4/16/2010

You may have seen one of my previous posts labeled Chinese Drywall Special. This property at 302 Shield built by Adams Homes in 2006 has a lab-tested confirmed case of Chinese drywall and is now off of the market. The sellers are looking into all legal options available to them which may include, but are not limited to, the builder, supplier, and manufacturer.

I have been looking into this topic and found this story on WKRG, a local news channel: http://www.wkrg.com/alabama/article/lawsuits-over-chinese-drywall-filed-in-prichard/172312/Jul-08-2009_7-34-pm.

It seems these homeowners in the above-mentioned story are going after the housing authority in their area.

I have posed the question to local building code enforcement officer Ron Cliff for Okaloosa County in Florida. I asked him if Chinese drywall is a violation of any county ordinance, and if it is not a violation, why is something that can cause health problems that are not even fully understood yet, something that releases a toxic gas, not a violation? I was told, "It's a lawsuit and it's health issues."

 

 

MLS#:	531832 OfficeFile#:	ListPrice:	$100,000
Status:	Active Last Change: 2/11/2010	ApproxSF:	1,930 BG:
Address:	302 SHIELD DRIVE	$/Sqft:	$51.81
	CRESTVIEW, FL	Bedrooms:	4
Zip:	32539	Baths Full/Half:	2/
County:	OKALOOSA	Stories:	1
MainArea:	25 Crestview Area	YearBuilt:	2006
SubArea:	01 CRESTVIEW SOUTHEAST	OccStat:	Occupied
Subdiv:	IRON GATE	ImmOcc?
ParcelID:	21-3N-23-1100-000C-0110	ConstrStat:	Construction Complete
ElemSch: RIVERSIDE Middle: SHOAL RIVER High: CRESTVIEW
Dir:	Hwy. 85 North to Redstone Ave. (after hospital) go right. Straight through stop sign (at Brookmeade). Left onto Broadsword (second s/d). Right onto Citadel home is on the corner of Shield look for sign.
Legal:	Lot 11 Block C

---

CHINESE DRYWALL SPECIAL!

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What to do with a Foreclosure that has Chinese drywall - 4/16/2010

WKRG.com News

I have posted this week about Chinese drywall and that the home in Iron Gate has been taken off the market in the south east area of Crestview.

I now have another listed home that is a bank owned property in North Crestview built in 2006 that has has recently had a home inspection done. The home inspector has found the home to have Chinese drywall. While this in not yet lab tested and confirmed the bank has been pro active and has asked that I get bids to remedy the situation. The home is listed at just over 100,000 and the bid has come in at 55,000. This is to remove all drywall, replace corroded wiring,install new insulation,remove and re-install all fixtures after the drywall is removed. I have been told by the general contractor this would remedy the situation

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Chinese Drywall Attorney Alliance - 4/16/2010

I can't understand how builders don't see that if there is a confirmed case of Chinese drywall in a subdivision they need to let the homeowners in that subdivision know about it. I understand their attorney may say that it would maybe open them up to imply that they were somehow responsible for the drywall. If you say its not your fault that you orderd it from a supplier but its in a home you built how can you even say that. So if you argue its not your fault ok maybe your right on that to a degree but would you not feel compelled to let everyone in the subdivision know that there is a confirmed case. It would be my thought that they need to get a home inspection to find out if their home is infected.

I think its pay now or later, The prime example is Toyota in the news right now if you hide it because its going to cost you money somewhere along the line you will pay much more in the long run in stock price and public relations and in todays social meida you had been putting peoples health at risk over money will be the story.

Find information below that can come in hand if you find that your home has Chinese drywall.

Toxic Chinese Drywall Problems | Legal Help for Homeowners From Alliance of Law Firms Across the U.S. Toxic Chinese drywall problems in Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, Virginia and other states have caused corrosion of pipes and wiring, and some people have had to vacate their homes and businesses. Chinese drywall emits sulfur fumes, which smell like rotten eggs, and in some cases can cause personal injuries in addition to corrosion of plumbing and wiring. The cost of repairing a building with Chinese drywall problems can be very high. The Chinese Drywall Attorney Alliance, with law firms in states across the U.S., is an alliance of law firms working to collect money damages on behalf of innocent owners of buildings with toxic Chinese Drywall problems. If your home or business has toxic Chinese drywall, we can help. Call 1-800-509-5357 for a free consultation with a Chinese Drywall Attorney Alliance lawyer. Or submit our Free Chinese Drywall Lawsuit Review form to get a free review of your potential lawsuit. Our Chinese Drywall Attorney Alliance lawyers will send a home inspector to find out whether there is Chinese made drywall ( also called Chinese sheetrock ) in your home or business. If the inspector finds Chinese drywall problems, we will represent you in a Chinese drywall lawsuit seeking to recover money to pay for your damages. The Chinese Drywall Attorney Alliance plans to file Chinese drywall lawsuits for its clients in the Multidistrict Litigation pending in New Orleans before United States District Judge Fallon. That litigation is proceeding quickly, so we urge anyone who has Chinese drywall problems and does not have a lawyer to contact us as soon as possible.

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Brandon Jordan Okaloosa County Featured Agent on ActiveRain since 2007 - 4/16/2010

Rank in Okaloosa County:

1 /261 (Featured!)

 

 Featured Members

Real Estate Agent: Brandon Jordan (Coldwell Banker United Realtors) Score: 266,902 Crestview

Brandon Jordan- Realtor - 

Coldwell Bankers United Realtors. 

 Okaloosa,Walton,Santa Rosa,Escambia,Holmes,Jackson,Calhoun Counties- Florida

My website, www.buyafloridavacationhome.com  , is easily one of the top in the Real Estate Industry. 

•   Community information

  Okaloosa County includes Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Crestview, Niceville, Valapariso, Baker, and Holt.

  Walton County includes DeFuniak Springs, Paxton, Freeport, Argyle, Grayton Beach, Mossy Head, Point Washington, Santa Rosa Beach, and Seagrove Beach.

  Holmes County includes Bonifay, Ponce de Leon, Bruce, Noma, Red Bay, and Westville.

  Santa Rosa County includes Milton, Navarre, Pace, Jay, Bagdad, and Gulf Breeze.

  Escambia County includes Pensacola, Century, Bellview, Brent, Ensley, Ferry Pass, Gonzalez, Goulding, Innerarity Point, Molino, Myrtle Grove, Perdido Key, Walnut Hill, Warrington, West Pensacola, and Beulah.

  Washington County includes Chipley, Caryville, Ebro, Sunny Hills, Vernon, and Wausau.

  Bay County includes Panama City, Panama City Beach, Callaway, Cedar Grove, Lynn Haven, Mexico Beach, Parker, and Springfield.

  Jackson County includes Marianna, Cottondale, Graceville, Jacobs, Malone, Alford, Bascom, Campbellton, Grand Ridge, Greenwood, and Sneads.

• Search Norhwest Florida Area Homes - free home search anywhere in and around Northwest Florida                
• Click here to search all available homes in the Emerald Coast Multiple Listing Service (MLS).

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  My 1500th plus post on ActiveRain - 4/16/2010

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    Want to know the value of your home? Click here to receive a free comparative market analysis!

   

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  Real Estate Services - Northwest Florida,- Including From Pensacola to Panama  City,Bonifay,Chipley,Crestview, Destin,Defuniak Springs,Freeport, Holt, Laurel Hill,Fort Walton Beach,MiraMar Beach and South Walton Beaches homes, condos, land, and investment properties

  My Client-First Philosophy

  There are many qualities and skills that go into being an excellent real estate professional - integrity, in-depth community and market knowledge, marketing savvy, effective negotiation skills and a high-quality professional network, all of which are hallmarks of how I work.

  That said, in my experience as a  Northwest Florida (Destin, Baker, Crestivew, Fort Walton, Mary Esther, Holt, Laurel Hill and Walton County) real estate professional, I've also found that providing the very best service is essentially about putting my clients first. This means keeping myself accessible, being a good listener as well as a good communicator, and responding quickly to your needs.

  This philosophy has always been my approach and it requires me to continually improve my skills and ways of doing business. In addition, I've found that the latest technologies are enabling me to do everything I've always done, only much more quickly and efficiently. They've also helped me to extend the range of services I provide to my clients.

  So when you decide that you'd like to buy or sell a home in the Northwest Florida area, please feel free to email me

  http://mailto:Brandon.Jordan@NorthwestFloridaRealtor.com

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  Coldwell Banker United Realtors Group on ActieRain almost 100 members - 4/16/2010

  Austin/Central Texas - Greater Austin Area, Bryan/College Station, Copperas Cove, Georgetown, Killeen, Lakeway, Round Rock Houston/East Texas - Greater Houston Area, Angleton, Clear Lake, Conroe, Ft. Bend, Katy, Lake Fork, Lake Jackson, Mt. Pleasant, Mt. Vernon, Sugar Land, Texarkana, Tomball, Tyler, The Woodlands Gulf Coast - Gulfport, Ocean Springs, Mobile, Pensacola, Fort Walton Beach, Destin North Carolina - Greater Charlotte Area, Concord, Denver, Huntersville, Lake Norman, Lake Wylie, Mathews, Mooresville, Monroe, Pineville, Statesville, Union County, Waxhaw South Carolina - Greater Columbia Area, Blythewood, Camden, Chapin, Fort Mill, Irmo, Lake Murray, Lancaster, Lexington, Lugoff, Rock Hill, Sumter/Shaw

   

   

   

  Founder:      Brandon Jordan

  Founded:       11/15/2007

  Subscribers:         96

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  We are moving closer to the 100 member mark if you know of anyone in the Coldwell Banker United Family that has not joined let them know to join today and the 100th member will have this first post featured in the group.

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  Walton County New Animal Shelter Opens - 4/16/2010

  Defuniak Springs, Fla:

  The abandoned and unwanted animals in Walton County now have a place to call home. The Walton County Animal Shelter is completed and fully functional now, complete with enough space to house strays and a vision to improve the lives of pets in the county.

  Lois Marlow is in charge of the shelter and has developed a vision plan for the shelter. It involves having every pet coming in or going out of the shelter spayed or neutered and vaccinated. The staff will assure you that this is no ordinary animal shelter.

  Those in charge of caring for the more than 100 animals at the Walton County Animal Shelter know that pets are more than just fur, loving eyes and barks. And none knows that better than Lois Marlow, the director of the shelter.

  Walton County hasn't always had a nice facility. The new shelter has been a long time in the making and just opened. Now Marlow says she's working on a new campaign... a way to help lower the cost of adoption: "We're looking at hopefully a 55 dollar range for adoption fee and that's going to include having your animal spayed or neutered and having a rabies vaccination. And we'll also do a feline leukemia check on the cats and a heartworm test on the dogs."

  Marlow says their goal is to adopt out as many animals as possible and to keep them in loving homes. After seeing many animals returned, the shelter will soon bring in a trainer to help families.

  The new facility will be useful in keeping the animals healthy. It's well-equipped to keep cross contamination to a minimum. It has heated floors and state-of-the-art surgical facilities. Marlow says the success stories have already begun writing themselves: "...to know that we actually placed that little animal, it's a feeling inside that you can't put words to. It's the best feeling I've ever had in my life and I love it. I love it!"

  The above is a great article about the new shelter that has open just this year in the North Walton county Florida area of Defuniak Springs.

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  Press Release:Brandon Jordan Earns NAR Short Sales and Foreclosure Certification - 3/26/2010

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Press Release Contact: Brandon Jordan (850) 758-1236

  
  

  __________________________________________________________________________

  
  

  Brandon Jordan Earns NAR Short Sales and Foreclosure Certification

  
  

  Buyers and Sellers Benefit from REALTOR^® Expertise in Distressed Sales

  
  

  Crestview, FL, 03/25/2010 - Brandon Jordan with Coldwell Banker United, Realtors® has earned the nationally recognized Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource certification. The National Association of REALTORS^® offers the SFR certification to REALTORS^® who want to help both buyers and sellers navigate these complicated transactions, as demand for professional expertise with distressed sales grows.

  
  

  According to a recent NAR survey, nearly one-third of all existing homes sold recently were either short sales or foreclosures. For many real estate professionals, short sales and foreclosures are the new "traditional" transaction. REALTORS^® who have earned the SFR certification know how to help sellers maneuver the complexities of short sales as well as help buyers pursue short sale and foreclosure opportunities.

  
  

  "As leading advocates for homeownership, REALTORS^® believe that any family that loses its home to foreclosure is one family too many, but unfortunately, there are situations in which people just cannot afford to keep their homes, and a foreclosure or a short sale results," said 2009 NAR President Charles McMillan, a broker with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Dallas-Fort Worth. "Foreclosures and short sales can offer opportunities for home buyers and benefit the larger community, as well, but it's extremely important to have the help of a real estate professional like a REALTOR^® who has earned the SFR certification for these kinds of purchases."

  
  

  The certification program includes training on how to qualify sellers for short sales, negotiate with lenders, protect buyers, and limit risk, and provides resources to help REALTORS^® stay current on national and state-specific information as the market for these distressed properties evolves. To earn the SFR certification, REALTORS^Ò are required to take one core course and three Webinars. For more information about the SFR certification, visit www.REALTORSFR.org or call 1-877-510-7855.

  
  

  About Coldwell Banker United, REALTORS®

  
  

  Coldwell Banker United, Realtors^® was founded in Bryan/College Station, Texas, by Richard A. Smith in 1970 and has grown to 71 residential and three commercial offices in five states with over 2,400 sales associates. The company was the number one affiliate in sales transactions and closed sales volume among 1,333 independently owned and operated Coldwell Banker companies worldwide. According to REALTOR Magazine, REAL Trends and RISMedia, three industry trade publications, the company in 2008, was ranked #5 among all U.S. real estate companies in closed transaction sides. For more information, log on to www.cbunited.com.

  
  

  REALTORÒ is a federally registered collective membership mark which identifies a real estate professional who is a Member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORSÒ and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.

  
  

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  Coldwell Banker launch February 15th Coldwell Banker on location TV spots - 1/26/2010

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

  On Location®, our exclusive YouTube channel, premieres on national TV February 15 - are you part of it?

  On February 15, our national advertising will launch a television spot for Coldwell Banker On Location®. What better way for you to get your name out in the market than with your very own YouTube channel! Many sales associates already have a vast video collection and are adding to it daily. If you aren't on YouTube, you're not part of the national campaign. You have the option of creating agent, listing and/or community videos. Show off your production talent and make yourself more prominent in your local market. Best of all, On Location is FREE. Take a moment to review the On Location section on Coldwell Banker Works.

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

  Follow me on YouTube click this link!

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  149 Lake Holley Cir. Private lakefront home for sale in N. Walton County FL - 12/30/2009

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  Brandon Jordan EPRO - 10/12/2009

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  Defuniak Springs Florida - 6/8/2009

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  Freeport Florida Information Video - 4/21/2009

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  Brandon Jordan handling REO & Short Sales Pre Foreclosures - 3/14/2009

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  Freeport MLS - 2/16/2009

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Freeport in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with www.FreeportMLS.com.

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  Coldwell Banker Introduces International Home search for iPhone and Blackberry - 1/23/2009

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  Our mailing list - 1/8/2009

  Click below takes you to WaltonMLS.com for our automated home search mailing list. Periodically, a search on your home criteria will be sent to the MLS and the results will be automatically emailed to you.

  http://www.waltonmls.com/mail.asp

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  Seaside Beach MLS - 12/8/2008

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Seaside Beach in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with
  www.SeasideBeachMLS.com.

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  Walton county schools - 9/24/2008

  Walton County Schools are A-grade schools under the state's FCAT program (see SCHOOL SCORE CARDS). This county has recently experienced an exponential economic growth as tourism based businesses and major housing developments have sprung up in the county. Yet, even with such a growth spurt, the teacher to student ratio ranges between 15-20 students to teacher.
  
  Walton Schools Rank Fifth in the State for A rated Schools
  
  LEARN MORE AT
  http://www.walton.k12.fl.us/

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  Walton MLS - 8/7/2008

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with
  www.WaltonMLS.com

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  Thinking about selling? Here are some helpful tips - 6/17/2008

  http://www.waltonmls.com/selling.asp

  Selling Information

  Looking to sell your home? We can help! This page is designed to provide helpful information if you are thinking of selling your home.

  CMA Submission Form

  You can submit this handy CMA Form and receive a free Comparative Market Analysis of your home or property. Find out the fair market value of your home today!

  Pricing

  Price is the Determining Factor when you are selling your home. Some important aspects of correct pricing are explored here.

  The Danger of Overpricing is explained here. A Realtor strives to price your home to the market so that it will sell as quickly as possible. Information recent as of 2003.

  Find out here why your home or property has not yet sold or may not be receiving the best possible offers.

  Contracts

  Contract Offer and Acceptance is explained here. Pay special attention to numbers 2 and 3 of the sellers' section.

  The Steps of the Buying and Selling Process are listed here in the order they usually occur. However, not all closings are the same so this process is only a general framework. Your Realtor will explain the entire process at the listing presentation and as a deal progresses.

  Additional Information

  Old South 1031 Exchange - Find out if the tax due on the sale of your home or investment property can be deferred.

  The Sellers' Prep List provides a list of problem areas potential buyers may examine carefully. If these small things don't function properly, the buyer may offer a lower price to offset the potential cost of repairs. Making sure these things are in proper working order brings better offers.

  The Purpose and Function of a Transaction Broker is explained here, as well why it is the best choice when selling your home in an open market.

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  Our Communities page - 4/4/2008

  The Community page is a guide to the entire Emerald Coast. You can view information about Okaloosa, Walton, Holmes, Santa Rosa, Escambia, Washington, Bay, and Jackson counties, plus in-depth information about cities in the area like DeFuniak Springs, Freeport, Santa Rosa Beach, Seagrove, Seaside, and Miramar Beach. Each city's page also has helpful utility phone numbers and local attractions
  

  Walton County includes DeFuniak Springs, Paxton, Freeport, Argyle, Grayton Beach, Mossy Head, Point Washington, Santa Rosa Beach, and Seagrove Beach.

  
  

  Okaloosa County includes Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Crestview, Niceville, Valapariso, Baker, and Holt.

  
  

  Holmes County includes Bonifay, Ponce de Leon, Bruce, Noma, Red Bay, and Westville.

  
  

  Santa Rosa County includes Milton, Navarre, Pace, Jay, Bagdad, and Gulf Breeze.

  
  

  Escambia County includes Pensacola, Century, Bellview, Brent, Ensley, Ferry Pass, Gonzalez, Goulding, Innerarity Point, Molino, Myrtle Grove, Perdido Key, Walnut Hill, Warrington, West Pensacola, and Beulah.

  
  

  Washington County includes Chipley, Caryville, Ebro, Sunny Hills, Vernon, and Wausau.

  
  

  Bay County includes Panama City, Panama City Beach, Callaway, Cedar Grove, Lynn Haven, Mexico Beach, Parker, and Springfield.

  
  

  Jackson County includes Marianna, Cottondale, Graceville, Jacobs, Malone, Alford, Bascom, Campbellton, Grand Ridge, Greenwood, and Sneads.

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  Dune Allen Beach MLS - 1/26/2008

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Dune Allen Beach in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with http://www.DuneAllenBeachMLS.com

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  Defuniak Springs Real Estate Agent - 1/4/2008

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Defuniak Springs in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with http://www.DefuniakSpringsRealEstateAgent.com

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  Defuniak Springs Florida Real Estate - 12/16/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Defuniak Springs in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with http://www.DefuniakSpringsFloridaRealEstate.com

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  Tell a friend page - 11/3/2007

  Tell a friend about this site! Simply fill out the short form below with your email address and the email address of the person you think might be interested in WaltonMLS.com, include a personal message to the person if you like, and click Submit. A link to the site, along with the message, will be sent to the recipient.

  http://www.waltonmls.com/mail.asp

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  Camp Creek MLS - 10/9/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Camp Creek in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with We are now easier to find with
  www.CampCreekMLS.com

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  Sitemap - 9/24/2007

  Our Real Estate site www.WaltonMLS.com has just added a site map to include an even easier way to use and find what you are looking for just click the link below and try it out.
  
  
  www.Waltonmls.com/sitemap.asp
  

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  Buying Northwest Florida Property? Here is some helpful information - 8/22/2007

  Information pertinent to buyers, with details walking you through the buying process and home loan information.

  Buying Information

  If you're looking to buy, we have many tools to help you find the home of your dreams on the Emerald Coast. All information provided herein is free of charge and with no obligation.

  Search

  Click here to search all available homes in the Emerald Coast Mutiple Listing Service (MLS).

  Sign up for our automated home search mailing list. Periodically, a search on your home criteria will be sent to the MLS and the results will be automatically emailed to you.

  Mortgages

  A Pre-Approved Mortgage is a great tool in helping you decide on your new home. Read about some of the benefits here.

  These are the Items a lender may want to see during the preapproval process.

  Use this Prequalification Form to help lenders pre-qualify you for a mortgage. This is an image that will print full-size onto a standard 8.5 inch x 11 inch piece of paper.

  Karl's Mortgage Calculator can help you calculate your P(rincipal)I(nterest)T(ax)I(nsurance) payment as well as generate an amortization table.

  Contracts

  Contract Offer and Acceptance is explained here.

  The Steps of the Buying and Selling Process are listed here in the order they usually occur. However, not all closings are the same so this process is only a general framework. Your Realtor will explain the entire process as a deal progresses.

  Additional Information

  Old South 1031 Exchange - Find out if the tax due on the purchase of your home or investment property can be deferred.

  The Purpose and Function of a Transaction Broker is explained here, as well why it is the best choice when buying a home in an open market.

  Click here to mail this blog to a friend!

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  Walton County MLS - 7/27/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with
  www.WaltonCountyMLS.com.

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  MLS Search Page - 7/17/2007

  Here you will have instant access to the MLS to search all homes for sale on the Emerald Coast for free.

  http://www.waltonmls.com/search.asp

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  Defuniak Springs MLS - 7/5/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with
  www.DefuniakSpringsMLS.com

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  Some of the Area that I cover - 6/2/2007

  Beaches of South Walton | South Walton Real Estate | North Walton Real Estate| 30-A Real Estate | Freeport Florida Real Estate | Inlet Beach Real Estate| Dune Allen Real Estate | Miramar Beach Real Estate| Santa Rosa Beach Real Estate | Seacrest Real Estate | Watersound Real Estate | Watercolor Real Estate | Blue Mountain Beach Real Estate | Rosemary Beach Real Estate | Grayton Beach Real Estate| SanDestin Real Estate | Seagrove Real Esate | Seaside Real Estate | Sandestin Resort Real Estate | Destin Condos Resources | Destin Condos | Destin Beaches | Destin Homes For Sale | Okaloosa Island Real Estate | Fort Walton Beach Real Estate | Mary Esther Real Estate | Shalimar Real Estate | Niceville Valparaiso Real Estate | Bluewater Bay Real Estate | Navarre Beach Real Estate| Navarre Real Estate| Holley By The Sea Real Estate | Gulf Breeze Real Estate

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  ERA Real Estate Recognized by J.D. Power and Associates - 5/22/2007

  ERA Real Estate today announced it is the recipient of the 2006 J.D. Power and Associates Award for "Highest Overall Satisfaction For Repeat Home Sellers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms." This marks the third year in a row that ERA Real Estate has received an award from this prestigious organization.
  
  Last year, the company was the recipient of the 2005 J.D. Power and Associates Award for "Highest Overall Satisfaction For First Time Home Sellers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms." In 2004, ERA Real Estate received the award for "Highest Overall Satisfaction For First Time Home Buyers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms."
  
  "Being recognized for customer satisfaction once again by a well-respected organization such as J.D. Power and Associates is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our sales associates and brokers," said Brenda W. Casserly, president and CEO for ERA Franchise Systems, Inc. "This award is a reflection of our promise to our customers to be 'Always There For You' throughout the homebuying and selling process."
  
  ERA Real Estate's host of products, services and materials dedicated to meeting the unique needs of sellers contributed to its award-winning satisfaction ratings. A customer favorite is the ERA Sellers Security® Plan, a unique, guaranteed sale program that offers sellers the freedom to close on their next home, even if their current home has yet to sell.
  
  About the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 Home Buyer/Seller Satisfaction Study
  ERA received the highest numerical score among national full service real estate firms for repeat home sellers in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2006 Home Buyer/Seller Satisfaction StudySM. Study based on 3,709 total responses measuring real estate firms and measures opinions of homebuyers and sellers. Study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed in April through May 2006. Your experiences may vary. Study conducted for Realogy Corporation by J.D. Power and Associates.
  
  About ERA Franchise Systems, Inc.
  About ERA Franchise Systems, Inc. ERA Franchise Systems, Inc. is a global leader in the residential real estate industry with more than 30 years experience in developing consumer-oriented products and services. ERA Real Estate was recently named the recipient of the prestigious 2006 J.D. Power and Associates Award for "Highest Overall Satisfaction For Repeat Home Sellers Among National Full Service Real Estate Firms." The ERA® network includes more than 38,700 brokers and sales associates and nearly 3,000 offices throughout the United States and 29 other countries and territories. Each office is independently owned and operated except offices owned and operated by NRT Incorporated. ERA Franchise Systems, Inc. is a subsidiary of Realogy Corporation (NYSE: H), the world's largest real estate franchisor. ERA information is available to consumers at ERA.com.

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  Blue Mountain Beach MLS - 5/10/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Blue Mountain Beach in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with We are now easier to find with
  www.BlueMountainBeachMLS.com

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  WaterSound MLS - 4/14/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Watersound in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with
  www.WatersoundMLS.com

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  2007 Bond Money Available (Okaloosa County, Santa Rosa County, and Walton County) - 3/29/2007

  There is another bond issue for first time homebuyers now available in addition to the State of Florida issue. It is the 2007 Escambia County Bond Program. Here are the general parameters:
  
  -this issue is available in Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Walton counties.
  
  -must be a first time homebuyer and have a contract to lock-in. A first time homebuyer is defined as someone who has not owned a primary residence in the last 3 years.
  
  -RATE-5.19% with 1.50 points. 30 year fixed rate only.
  
  -available for conventional, VA, FHA and Rural Development loans.
  
  -Maximum total family income:
  

  • Okaloosa County
  • 1-2 members: $57,800
  • 3 + members: $66,470
  • Santa Rosa and Walton Counties
  • 1-2 members: $54,800
  • 3 + members:$63,020
  -Maximum sales price limitations
  • Okaloosa: $281,137
  • Santa Rosa: $237,031
  • Walton: $429,619
  -owner occupied only.
  
  -no home buyer counseling required.
  
  -Up to $7000 in the form of a second mortgage to cover closing cost, prepaids and down payment. The Rate is 0% amortized over 10 years ($58.33 per month). There is no monthly payment but the second is paid when the house is sold, or the borrower no longer resides in the property.
  
  This bond issue offers the lowest rate currently available on a 30-year fixed rate. If you are working with someone who is a first time homebuyer, please have them call me with any questions. 1-800-303-7010,
  or 651-5252 local.
  
  Thanks in advance,
  John Flournoy
  Mortgage Loan Officer

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  Defuniak Springs MLS - 3/29/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Defuniak Springs in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with www.DefuniakSpringsMLS.com

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  Defuniak MLS - 5/22/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Defuniak in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with www.DefuniakMLS.com

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  Walton County Website Updates - 3/29/2007

  5:30 PM Beach Activities Working Group
  South Walton Courthouse Annex, 31 Coastal Centre Blvd, Santa Rosa Beach
  Dede Hinote, Executive Assistant, 892-8155
  
  Working Group to review and make recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners on the Beach Activities Ordinance.
  
  6:00 PM Recreation Board
  Freeport Community Center, 16040 Hwy 331, Freeport
  Tammy Bradley, Administrative Assistant, 892-8703
  
  6:00 PM Scenic 30A Corridor Advocacy Group
  Tourist Development Council Office, U.S. 98 at U.S. 331
  Claire Bannerman, CAG Coordinator, 622-3059 or bannerwoman@mchsi.com
  
  The public is invited for a review of the official designation process for Scenic 30-A. This is a
  "Major Milestone Meeting" with the corridor recently passing a significant milestone in gaining ongoing designation status from the Eligibility Application that was unanimously approved by the State's Scenic Highway Advisory Committee.
  
  Tuesday, March 20, 2007 5:00 PM
  Walton County School Board Meeting
  School District Office, 145 Park Street, DeFuniak Springs
  Kay McBroom, School Board Secretary, 892-1100 X1302
  
  Regular semi-monthly meeting.
  
  Wednesday, March 21, 2007 8:30 AM
  Technical Review Committee
  South Walton Courthouse Annex, 31 Coastal Centre Blvd, Santa Rosa Beach
  Katie Newton, Planning Department, 267-1955
  
  Thursday, March 22, 2007 6:00 PM
  Zoning Board of Adjustment (Variance Board)
  South Walton Courthouse Annex, 31 Coastal Centre Blvd, Santa Rosa Beach
  Doris Cooper, Administrative Assistant, 267-1955
  
  Normal monthly meeting.

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  Seagrove Beach MLS - 3/29/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Seagrove Beach in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with SeagrovebeachMLS.com.

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  Seacrest Beach MLS - 3/29/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Seacrest Beach in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with SeacrestbeachMLS.com.

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  Santa Rosa Beach MLS - 3/29/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Santa Rosa Beach in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with SantarosabeachMLS.com.

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  Sandestin MLS - 3/29/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Sandestin in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with SandestinMLS.com.

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  Red Bay MLS - 3/29/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Red Bay in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with RedbayMLS.com.

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  Red Bay Golf Course - 3/29/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Red Bay in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with Redbaygolfcourse.com.

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  Red Bay Golf - 3/29/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Red Bay in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with Redbaygolf.com.

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  Point Washington MLS - 3/29/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Point Washington in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with PointwashingtonMLS.com.

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  Miramar Beach MLS - 3/29/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Miramar Beach in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with MiramarbeachMLS.com.

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  Inlet Beach MLS - 3/29/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Inlet Beach in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with InletbeachMLS.com.

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  Grayton MLS - 3/29/2007

  We now offer free instant access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) with complete real estate listings for the Emerald Coast, including Grayton Beach in Walton County.
  
  Are you looking to buy or sell a home or real estate in Northwest Florida? Give us a call; we can help with it all! Team Sold.
  
  We are now easier to find with GraytonMLS.com.

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  Walton County Upcoming Events - 3/29/2007

  Wednesday, March 14, 2007 2:00 PM
  Walton County Local Mitigation Strategy Group Meeting
  Freeport Old Post Office, SR 20 at Kylea Laird Drive, Freeport
  Janice Floyd, LMS Group Secretary, 267-1955
  This group meets as part of a voluntary program initiated by the Florida Department of Community Affairs to help local governments develop strategies to reduce or eliminate risks to people and property from natural and man-made hazards.
  
  THIS GROUP IS NOT INVOLVED WITH WETLANDS MITIGATION FOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS. Walton County, its municipalities, and other entities participate in this program as an
  opportunity to save lives and protect economic and environmental resources from future disasters. Grants are often available from the state for local jurisdictions that have a Local Mitigation Strategy in place.
  
  The public is invited to attend and participate in these meetings.
  
  Thursday, March 15, 2007 8:00 AM
  Coastal Dune Lake Advisory Board
  Coastal Branch Library, 437 Greenway Trail, Santa Rosa Beach Ann Haigh, Planning and Development Division,
  267-1955.
  
  The regular meeting will be from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. followed by a workshop from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon.
  
  3:00 PM Okaloosa-Walton Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) Niceville Community Center, 204 N. Partin Drive, Niceville
  Ellie Roberts, WFRPC Transportation Staff, (800) 226-8914 Ext. 218
  
  Commissioners Brannon, Comander, and Meadows, and DeFuniak Springs Council Member Roy McLeod are members of this Board.
  
  The TPO has three advisory committees: the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC), the Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC), and the Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC). The advisory committees also meet on the third Thursday of each month. The CAC meets at 9:30 a.m., the BPAC at 11:30, and the TCC at 1:30 p.m.
  
  See agenda for this meeting at: http://www.wfrpc.dst.fl.us/owtpo/agenda.htm.
  
  6:00 PM Code Enforcement Board
  Walton County Courthouse, 571 E. Nelson Avenue, DeFuniak Springs
  Sherrie Griggs, Code Enforcement Secretary, 622-0564
  
  Normal monthly meeting.

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  Revisit Some Past Episodes on TeamSoldTV.com Today! - 3/18/2007

  We want to invite you to visit our site at www.TeamSoldTV.com and watch, from the first episode, all properties that have been viewed to date. 5484 Highway 192, Defuniak Springs, Florida is now sold, we are happy to announce. However, many properties are still available.
  
  Watch the tours of: Lot 10, Eugene Court on Lake Rosemary, a great Florida lakefront lot in Defuniak Springs, Florida for sale on episode 2; Lot 29 and Lot 30, Falcon Way, The Pines subdivision, Crestview, Florida, both level, buildable lots that are a quarter acre in a subdivision for around $30,000 with Auburn Water available; a 26-acre tract on Innsbrook Lane in Holt, Florida; a 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom John King Road home on an oversized half acre lot, south of I-10; commercial lots on Bay Street in Crestview, Florida, a corner lot over an acre in size; and 10-acre Stallion Drive, Crestview, Florida with an updated 2-bedroom 1989 in an all 10-acre-tracts subdivision for $125,000, all in episode 3.
  
  You can view these in-depth tours which are not normally seen online -- not just pictures but good information that may help you find your dream home. You can get a clear picture on many properties on our show today. We are airing new episode number 5 this Friday at its normal time.
  
  I want to thank Lisa Sanford for appearing on multiple episodes of Team Sold Real Estate TV that airs on the CW, FOX, & WEAR-3 after Jimmy Kimmel (Friday night). Just visit TeamSoldTV.com and click "Schedule" on the menu to the left to find out our airtimes. Or, if you are outside of our viewing area, we have you covered as well; all our episodes will be available at TeamSoldTV.com. Just click on the link under "Episodes" in the "Interactive" section on the front page to view the complete show.
  
  Email us your questions now at www.TeamSoldTV.com and we will answer them on upcoming shows. We will also be showing you many unique properties from Panama City to Pensacola as well.

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  Many Properties Covered on Our New Episode; Watch It Today! - 9/24/2008

  I want to thank Kaylyn Knopes and Michelle Styron for appearing on episode 4 of Team Sold Real Estate TV that airs on CW, FOX, & WEAR-3 after Jimmy Kimmel (Friday night). Just visit TeamSoldTV.com and click "Schedule" on the menu to the left to find out our airtimes. Or, if you are outside of our viewing area, we have you covered as well; all our episodes will be available at TeamSoldTV.com. Just click on the link under "Episodes" in the "Interactive" section to view the complete show.
  
  Email us your questions now at www.TeamSoldTv.com and we will answer them on upcoming shows. We will also be showing you many unique properties from Panama City to Pensacola as well.

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  Watch Team Sold Real Estate TV at TeamSoldTV.com - 1/24/2007

  We are proud to present, as a service to everyone viewing our site, that we will be bringing you every episode of our brand new TV show called "Team Sold Real Estate TV" that airs on CW, FOX, & WEAR-3 after Jimmy Kimmel. Just visit TeamSoldTV.com and click on the link under "Episodes" in the middle of our page in the "Interactive" section.
  
  Our show will will be bringing you information that we hope you will find helpful, from many of the home industries' top professionals from title companies to loan officers.
  
  Our first two episodes feature Patrice Bobo-Miles with Countrywide Home Loans.
  
  Email us your questions now at www.TeamSoldTV.com and we will answer your questions on upcoming shows. We will also be showing you many unique properties from Panama City to Pensacola in upcoming shows as well. If you are outside of our viewing area we have you covered; all our episodes will be available right here.

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  It is Official: Team Sold is Going to TV - 12/18/2006

  We are proud to announce that now, as a service to everyone in our viewing area (all of the Emerald Coast), we will be bringing you our very first episode of our brand new TV show called " eam Sold Real Estate TV," starting January 5, 2007, on WEAR-3 after Jimmy Kimmel.
  
  We will be bringing you information that we hope you will find helpful from many of the home industries' top
  professionals, from title companies to loan officers.
  
  Email us your questions now at www.Teamsoldtv.com and we will be answering your questions on upcoming shows.
  
  We will also be showing you many unique properties from Panama City to Pensacola in upcoming shows as well.
  
  If you are outside of our viewing area we still have you covered; all our episodes will be available on YouTube. Stay tuned!

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  Team Sold is Proud to Announce We Offer the Talking House Service Free to Every One of Our Listings. - 12/15/2006

  Click each image to view more information about Talking House.
  
  

  
  
  

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  Saving Money at Closing - 12/18/2006

  Savings Tips
  Fees for some standard items, such as appraisal, credit report and title insurance should be almost the same at every lender. The same goes for payments to local governments, such as documentation stamps and recording fees.
  
  A bank or mortgage company may be willing to drop some of the fees if you opt out of a service. For instance, they may overnight documents back and forth for faster approval. If you are not in a hurry, you can ask that the documents be sent by regular mail and the overnight charges be dropped.
  
  Watch out for "junk fees" or additional charges. Most mortgage programs include them, but you should be able to negotiate them down or eliminate them.
  
  Other Ways to Save on Costs
  
  
  Try to close your mortgage near the end of the month. Because all mortgage loans are due on the first of the month, you will have to pay interest from the day you close until the end of the month. You can avoid or greatly reduce prepaid interest due by closing the last day of the month or near that date, and save yourself hundreds of dollars.
  
  As part of the sale contract, you can negotiate with the seller of the property to help pay for some of the closing costs, points or other fees.
  
  Plan ahead with your mortgage lender. Don't wait until the day of closing to try to reduce costs.

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  Qualified Intermediary receives Certified Exchange Specialist TM Recognition - 12/3/2006

  Destin, Florida: Old South 1031 Exchange Services, LLC, a nationwide 1031 Qualified Intermediary announces that Andrew Gustafson, a principal of the firm, is one of twelve business professionals in the state of Florida and less than two hundred nationally to earn the Certified Exchange Specialist (CES) designation, after meeting the examination and work-experience criteria established by the Federation of Exchange Accommodators (FEA). The FEA is a non-profit trade organization with a nationwide network of certified professionals accountants, attorneys, real estate brokers, and others to help investors handle the requirements of Section 1031 transactions.
  
  Section 1031 Exchanges are complex transactions that permit investors to defer capital gains taxes on the sale of certain types of business, investment, or income property, provided specific criteria are met, including the replacement of the property with one or more properties of "like kind." Investment real estate is the most common type of property exchanged in this manner, though many other types of property can be bought and sold through a 1031 exchange. Examples include construction equipment, easements, livestock, oil and gas, minerals, timber, water rights, airplanes, boats and yachts, and motor vehicles, among others.
  
  The FEA is encouraging taxpayers to consider using a Certified Exchange Specialist to act as a "qualified intermediary" for their 1031 for good reason. According to Andrew Gustafson, "Almost anyone can claim to be a Qualified Intermediary. The problem is that Section 1031 Exchanges are complicated and highly specific, so even a small mistake could completely wipe out the potential tax benefits. The FEA's certification program is intended to allow taxpayers to make informed decisions when selecting a Qualified Intermediary."

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  Fees on a Mortgage - 11/28/2006

  Fees on a mortgage cover almost every cost associated with getting a loan. You've already encountered fees upfront for a credit report and a property appraisal.
  
  But there are many more fees that you will be expected to pay at closing or settlement, which is generally 30 to 60 days after finalizing the sales contract. These closing costs are outlined in the "good faith estimate." The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act requires every bank or mortgage company to give the buyer the estimate within three days of applying for the loan. It will list expenses related to inspections, taxes, title insurance and a host of other charges. You also should receive an information booklet, "Settlement Costs -- a HUD Guide."
  
  Tip:The best approach is to get a copy of the good faith estimate before you make a commitment to any lender.
  
  Typical Closing Costs
  Here is a list of typical closing costs. In general, closing costs amount to 3 percent to 6 percent of the sale price. Note items with an asterisk (*) are explained below. For an estimated price range, see the separate Standard Closing Costs.
  

  • Loan application fees and credit report
  • Title search and insurance fees*
  • Lender's attorney fees
  • Property appraisal
  • Inspections
  • Survey
  • Recording fees
  • Transfer taxes
  • Buyer's attorney
  • Documentary stamps on new note
  • Points and origination fees
  • Condominium application fee
  • Escrow account balances/prepaids*
  
  Title Insurance
  This is a policy that insures against errors in the title search, essentially guaranteeing you and your lender's financial interest in the property. It checks for any defects, liens or encumbrances on the property that may affect the rights of ownership, possesion or use of the property. It is issued after a complete examination of the public records. It also insures against such things as forgery, fraud, missing heirs or divorce actions. Keep in mind that the required title insurance protects the lender. You may want to take out an owner's title insurance to protect yourself.
  
  Escrow
  At closing you may have to put aside money into special escrow accounts to cover other costs associated with buying a home, such as private mortgage insurance (PMI), property taxes and homeowner's insurance. This will ensure that taxes and insurance premiums on the property are paid on time. Federal law limits the amount of "cushion" to two months of escrow payments. Be sure to ask the lender what escrow payments will be required at closing. Some mortgage companies may waive escrow requirements if you pay more points or a higher interest rate.
  
  Savings Tips
  You may be able to lower the cost of title insurance if the home you're buying hasn't been owned for a long time by the seller. The insurer may be willing to give you a re-issue rate, hence lower a premium, if there have been no claims against the title since the previous title search was done. If both you and the seller are getting title insurance, you can save by using the same title insurance firm. The cost will be lower since the insuror researches the property only once for both of you.
  
  It is important to review the estimate of closing costs and to ask questions about fees that seem unfamiliar. Lenders differ and can get creative when it comes to other types of charges.
  

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  Closing Cost Review - 11/27/2006

  How much money do you need to bring to the table on closing day?
  
  Reminder: Keep your copy of the "good faith estimate" and compare it to the final list of closing costs. Question any changes or additions. Your closing agent should allow you to review the settlement form one business day before closing.
  
  You may want to preview a sample of the HUD-1 Settlement Statement at the web site of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The site also has other helpful information about closings and settlement.
  
  At this point, having secured the mortgage loan, you already have paid for the loan application fee, the property appraisal and some of the down payment. At the closing, you will need to pay the balance of your down payment. There are other costs that still must be paid in order to close the sale, unless you already have arranged and paid for them. (If so, bring receipts and other documentation with you to the closing.) These costs can include:
  

  • Title search and insurance
  • Survey
  • Termite or other inspections
  • Homeowner's hazard insurance
  • Flood insurance
  • Taxes
  • Attorney and closing agent fees
  
  Additional fees related to the loan:
  
  • Loan origination fee
  • Points, if any
  • Private mortgage insurance (PMI)
  • Balance of your down payment
  
  Reminder: Have separate certified checks for all closing costs. Some of the costs, such as points, are tax deductible. Also, bring your checkbook, so you can write a personal check for small miscellaneous expenses such as photocopying.
  
  

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  Hammock Bay: Freeport, Florida Subdivision - 11/25/2006

  Along Highway 20, just 15 minutes north of the sugary white sand beaches of the Florida Panhandle and scenic Highway 30-A, the community of Hammock Bay is taking shape along Choctawhatchee Bay. A 3000-acre master-planned residential community nestled in the quiet surroundings of Freeport, Florida, Hammock Bay offers a
  comforting balance between coastal living and a more relaxed, inland setting. It’s the defining place for something we like to call Hammock Time. And it’s difficult to imagine a better place to call home.
  
  The Hammock Bay story dates back several generations to a simpler time. A time when family and friends were central to daily existence, and home was the setting for the most important things in life. Homes were closely tied with the land, thoughtfully built and cared for, to be passed on for generations. Neighborhoods formed the framework for family life and fun. And today in Hammock Bay, it’s not much different. Our respect for this land -- our home -- dictates how we plan and build Hammock Bay. How we situate homes, open space, trails, clubhouses all echo the traditions we value, creating an easygoing lifestyle that welcomes everyone. Living well has never been so simple.
  
  There are lots of choices for new home communities, but no other community offers so much. At Hammock Bay Freeport you get 3 stunning new clubs free…for life*. The Lake Club, with its 6,000 sq ft clubhouse, features a big screen movie theatre, two world-class pools, basketball, tennis courts and playground. The 4,000 sq ft Fitness Center complete with state-of-the-art equipment is just next door. And our secluded Bay Club has 480 feet of shoreline with a sunset boardwalk. We’re constructing our New Town Square and The New Freeport City Park baseball and soccer complex. Hammock Bay has 12 miles of walking and biking paths and multiple clearwater lakes. We invite you to come visit Hammock Bay (1.5 miles west of Highway 331 on Highway 20), and find your new home or home site.
  
  Now, take Florida living to a higher level in our landscape masterpiece. Predevelopment pricing offered on a select few remaining lots, while inventories last.
  
  Development of the "Lake Club at Hammock Bay" is underway with a projected completion date of Spring, 2007, andFreeport City Park at Hammock Bay is scheduled for a groundbreaking in late '06.
  
  Copyright © 2006 Hammock Bay, Freeport 860 LLC.
  
  *Residents must comply with association rules and regulations as well as maintain a residence at Hammock Bay.

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  Florida's Offical Web Site Recorded 74.5 Million Visitors - 11/15/2006

  Florida's official web site recorded 74.5 million visitors in 2005. Investors in Florida are growing financially successful by taking advantage of the growing preconstruction real estate market. Cities, such as Orlando and Panama City, make Florida one of our nation's strongest economic states. Florida also has many advantages, for instance theme parks, museums, beautiful beaches, and also a wide variety of military bases. As you search Florida's Investment Properties you will see a variety of listings for every major city in the Emerald Coast and various vacation hotspots. Why buy property that is more expensive and needs to be fixed-up, when you can invest in a preconstruction real estate opportunity? These real estate properties can act as your home away from home or can easily be rented out to other families during the year to provide a steady income.
  
  Florida is the acting central location for all preconstruction real estate opportunities at this time. Pensacola is more than just another city on a map and this tends to attract tourists from all over the globe. Various attractive hotspots surround this great city allowing for opportunities for investors to make money on pre-construction investments. Allowing for a great vacation spot for a diverse group of people.
  
  The preconstruction real estate market in Florida is growing rapidly. The average selling price for a property in Florida rose 17% over 2005. The average selling price for a preconstruction property rose 26% in 2005. As you can see, even the traditional real estate market in Florida is growing at 6% over the national average, and preconstruction real estate is strong. Developers will sometimes cut their preconstruction project into phases allowing for someone who invested in the project during an earlier phase to pay considerably less then someone who invested during a later phase.
  
  Thank you to the Real Estate Development Center for this article.
  

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  The Difference Between Real Estate Agent and Realtor - 11/10/2006

  Though the two terms are often used interchangably, real estate agents and REALTORS have different connotations. While both types of real estate professionals help clients buy and sell property in a similar fashion, REALTORS are members of the National Association of REALTORS. Retaining membership to this prestigious organization requires a strict adherence to seventeen tenets of ethical behavior in real estate transactions.
  
  While evaluating the ethical behavior if each individual real estate professional would prove impossible and the morality of each REALTOR is not guaranteed, it is fact that unaffiliated real estate agents are not required to conform to these policies.
  
  The Seventeen Commandments of REALTORS
  
  1. Treat your clients, buyers, sellers, landlords, or tenants, fairly and honestly while protecting and promoting their interests.
  
  2. Do not misrepresent, exaggerate, or lie about any property. However, you are not responsible for latent defects or providing advice unrelated to real estate.
  
  3. Cooperate with other brokers, except when cooperation is not in your clients best interest.
  
  4. If you have any personal interest in the property (for yourself, friends, family, or co-workers), you must tell the property owner. If selling your own home, you must reveal this information to the buyer.
  
  5. Do not represent a property of which you have marked interest without disclosing this information to all affected parties.
  
  6. Do not take any commissions or additional fees for favors or recommendations without notifying the client when these costs are first mentioned.
  
  7. Do not accept compensation from more than one party per transaction without prior approval from all parties involved.
  
  8. Keep your personal assets in a separate account from your professional funds.
  
  9. Make sure all agreements and contracts are written explicitly in laymens terms that all clients will understand. After signing, give each party a copy of the contract.
  
  10. Do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, handicap, familial status, or national origin.
  
  11. Conform to quality standards of the specific type real estate transaction. Do not undertake a job if it is outside of your field without the assistance of a professional competent in said field.
  
  12. Represent yourself honestly to the public, clearly stating your professional status.
  
  13. Do not pretend you are a lawyer.
  
  14. Cooperate, be honest, and present all facts if you are charged with unethical practice. Do not disrupt the proceedings.
  
  15. Do not engage in slanderous activity against competitors.
  
  16. Do not interfere with other REALTORS exclusive relationships with their clients.
  
  17. In the event of a dispute, go to the REALTOR board for arbitration rather than going to a regular legal court.
  
  Information provided from Realtor.org.

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  ERA Has Increased Internet Exposure..."Always there for you" - 11/9/2006

  As a company founded on technology, ERA Real Estate has always embraced the idea of turning innovative thinking into a competitive advantage for its agents and customers. With that in mind, I am glad to announce a unique marketing initative we have established with Google, the internet search leader, to provide increased online exposure for our sellers' property listings.
  
  We have become the first real estate network to make all of its national residential listings available through Google. This new service that allows content providers to submit detailed information to be incorporated into Google search results. This initative makes it easier for prospective buyers to discover your listings online and is an excellent example of how listings with ERA can help sellers best market their home online.
  
  With the internet playing an ever increasing role in our industry, it is vitally important that we take full advantage of the potential presented by this technology. We will continue to work on creating new marketing venues for you to utilitize as part of the ERA network.
  
  Thank you to ERA Franchise and Public Relations for their help.

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  Many of you have asked for this information -- "Residential Lot Loan Program" - 11/9/2006

  • Up to 30 year amortization
  
  
  • Interest only payments available
  
  
  • Up to 90% financing (based on appraisal or contract)(*land size restrictions)
  
  
  • Mortgages modified for construction loan (reducing costs for construction loans)
  
  

  Plan	1 & 1 ARM	3 & 1 ARM	5-Year Fixed Amort.
  Min. Cash Down Payment	25%     10%	25%     10%	25%     10%
  Maximum LTV	75%     90%	75%     90%	75%     90%
  Start Rate	6.95%     7.25%	7.50%     7.75%	7.95%     8.25%
  Total Points	0     1/2	0     1/2	0     1/2
  Amortization	Interest Only	Interest Only	15-Year(**20/30 Year)
  Maturity	5 Years	5 Years	5 Years
  Caps	2% Annual - 5% Life	2% Annual - 5% Life	N/A
  Index	1 Year T-Bill	1 Year T-Bill	N/A
  Margin	3.50%     3.75%	3.50%     3.75%	N/A
  Adjustment Frequency	Annually	Annually beginning year 4	N/A

  
  (Note this program is only available in platted/recorded subdivisions and good sales histories. Areas that do not qualify, lower LTV and higher interest rates may apply.)
  
  
  • A minimum of 25% down required on purchases of $500,000+.
  
  
  
  • Investor loans - minimum 25% down, 75% LTC/LTV; increase above rate by a minimum of 1% and get a 1% origination fee.
  
  
  
  • Non-purchase (refinance, renewal, cash out) add a minimum of .50% to above rate.
  
  
  
  • Non-platted, rural, and without deed restrictions which limit homes to site built add a minimum of 1% to above rate. Minimum 25% down, 75% LTV.
  
  
  
  • Add .50% to rate for loans qualifying for stated income program (purchased for primary residence only).
  
  
  
  • Foreign National Program - minimum 25% down, 75%LTC/LTV: increase above rate by a minimum of 1% and get a 1% origination fee and a 6 month reserve account.
  
  
  
  • All loans are subject to qualification.
  
  * Maximum lot size 3 acres (10 acre if in platted subdivision).
  
  ** 20 year available on loans above $35,000, 30 year on loans above $100,000.
  
  Rates and terms subject to change. For informational purposes only.
  
  Call Rena Gilpatrick of Peoples First at 850-609-3941 for more information. Thanks again Rena for the information.

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  Local Lenders' Toll Free Contact Information - 2/26/2007

  Access Bank and Mortgage
  1-888-908-1994
  
  AmSouth
  1-800-374-5791
  
  Army Aviation Center Federal Credit Union
  1-800-919-2872
  
  Eglin Federal Credit Union
  1-800-367-6159
  
  Bank of America
  1-800-432-1000
  
  BankTrust
  1-866-328-7887
  
  Colonial Bank
  1-877-502-2265
  
  Compass Bank
  1-800-239-4357
  
  First City Bank
  1-888-244-5151
  
  First National Bank of Florida
  1-800-277-0995
  
  First National Bank & Trust
  1-866-395-0051
  
  Okaloosa County Teachers' Credit Union
  850-863-7041
  
  Peoples' First Community Bank
  1-800-982-4940
  
  Peoples' National Bank
  1-800-303-7010
  
  Regions
  1-800-Regions
  
  SunTrust
  1-800-786-8787
  
  TrustMark
  1-800-844-2000
  
  Tyndall Federal Credit Union
  1-877-747-4321
  
  Vanguard Bank
  1-800-840-8440
  
  Wachovia
  1-800-922-4684

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  Changes in VA Funding Fees - 11/7/2006

  Effective October 2006, changes in VA funding fees went into effect. The new changes are impacting both active duty as well as retired service members.
  
  First-time use remains 2.15%, but subsequent use rose from 3.30% to 3.35%. 5-10% down gets you 1.50% while a down payment of 10% or more gets you a 1.25% funding fee.
  
  For the Reserves and the National Guard, the VA funding fee for first-time home buyers is 2.40%. Subsequent use is 3.35%; a 5-10% down payment gets you a 1.75% funding fee and 10% or more down gets you 1.50%.
  
  Total loan amount is equal to the sales price plus an additional amount of sales price times the VA funding fee.
  
  Example: with a sales price of $250,000, for an active duty first-time usage:
  
  

  $250,000 + ($250,000 x 2.15%)
  $250,000 + $5,375
  $255,375.
  
  Please email me or give me a call if you need phone numbers to local lenders in our area.

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  Free Credit Reports - 2/26/2007

  I have tried it and it is truly free: no charge!
  
  Have you ever been denied credit for a purchase even though you thought your credit was great? Have you ever wondered if you were a victim of identity theft? The answer could be in your credit report.
  
  Until now you could not access this information without a fee. However, with the passage of the Fair and Accurate Credit Transaction Act, consumers can now get a free credit report annually from each of the three credit reporting bureaus that supply businesses with information on customers -- Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.
  
  The address is www.annualcreditreport.com.
  
  Thanks to John Flournoy at Peoples First Community Bank for faxing over the information some time back and for reminding me of this information. If you are thinking of buying property John Flournoy would be happy to talk with you about all the lending programs that are available. Tell him you are working with Brandon Jordan of ERA American Realty and he will give you $250.00 off your closing costs.
  
  You can reach John at his office at (850) 651-5252 or email him at johnflournoy@peoplesfirst.com.

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  First Blog Entry -- More to Come - 11/1/2006

  I want to thank DB Web Creations for helping to put this blog online for me. I hope that this blog will help everyone get to know me a little better. I also want to provide some useful information every once in a while.
  
  I would also like to thank everyone for all your positive calls and emails regarding the September 26th front page article in the Northwest Daily and the segment on channel 3 the following week about the 2,000+ home project on Highway 90 called "Creekside Preserve."
  
  I want to encourage any of you reading this to submit any errors or corrections that you feel could help to better our website; or, if you just want to tell me how much you like the website, that is always great too.

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