The best time of year has come for San Francisco. There are many many wonderful weekends of great weather and fun coming. Stay tuned for more breakdowns of future weekend events. Here is a list of what is happening this weekend, the weekend of May 19th.
Asian Heritage Street Celebration - Both Saturday and Sunday
11:00 am to 6:00 pm, Howard Street between 5th and 7th Street. The will have food, music, arts, crafts, you name it!
Dolores Park Festival
11:00 am, Dolores Park between 18th and Dolores Streets. Brass musicians, tribal drummers, performance artists, DJs and more.
Eight Annual San Francisco Oyster and Beer Festival for even info call 415-989-6222
12:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Fort Mason, Bay and Franklin Streets. This one sounds like a blast, oysters, beer, music, shucking, how can you lose!
Mission District Brass Parade
Saturday 12:00 pm, 22nd Street and Bartlett on it's way to Dolores Park. Musicians and artist march through Dolores Park.
Courtesy of Jon Vetter, Mercury Lending
San Francisco Loan Officer - 650-465-5846 - www.jonathanvettermortgage.com
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Last Call for Loan Officer...Last Call
The mortgage business has been flooded with Loan Officers looking to make a quick buck. Why? Because it is easy...Pass a couple online classes, take a test...Presto! You can do a loan...
Sometimes, if the broker has the right license, you don't even need a license!
That is great, and some of the services other Loan Officers can offer are wonderful, but long term relationships and trust is most important. It is time to stop shopping, stop floating from broker to broker, stop wasting time, and settle down with the right broker. Am I him/her? Maybe...I think you would be doing yourself a disservice to not find out.
Reasons for giving me a call at the very least:
Education - You need someone that has the real life and real business experience, but also the formal education and licensing to absorb the whole picture, and react fast with solutions. I have it all...
Availability - Your issues are my issues. I am available whenever I am not sleeping. Even then, call, maybe I will wake up. I am never without email or my phone. If I don't answer, I will return your call. I don't dodge calls, I have nothing to hide.
Attitude - Honestly, this job is fun. Sometimes it is stressful, but if you work with a smile on your face, and keep the right attitude, the world is a better place. My clients experience it daily.
Product - You will hear other lenders proclaim that they have 250 million lenders and all that. Wonderful, they can shop all day long. I don't have time, nor the need to do that. The 20 lenders that frequent my office are sufficient, and if not one of them can do it and I can't get one of them to give me the name of someone that can, forget it, there is something far more severe going wrong than any lender can fix.
Rates - The first thing I hear from most calls I get. "What are you rates?" Truth is I have lot's of them. Some good, some bad. What do you want? What can I get for YOU? I don't know...let's find out. I have lenders that reward me for bringing you to them, and that reward is passed down to you. Your income (even if it is low) and where you live are some things my lenders reward. I don't advertise rates online in most cases because they are irrelevant, rates depend on your situation, not any one else's. Though you can get a general range online of where the MARKET is at.
Speed - I push things as fast as possible. Can I close a loan in 10 days? Sometimes...it depends on the loan and the lender. I need you to help me close as fast as possible. WE can make it fast.
Post Close Contact - I don't do your loan, and then forget about you. My regular contact with you, whether through email, snail mail, or phone, will give you the security that I am here...for good. I am proud of the work I do in all cases. If you feel I have done something wrong, all you have to do is let me know, and I will do what I can to fix it, or at least make it up to you.
Are you ready to make that last call? I know I am ready for you. Pick up the phone, make the call, and let's make it happen together.
San Francisco Home Loan, from and honest San Francisco Loan Officer.
Sometimes, if the broker has the right license, you don't even need a license!
That is great, and some of the services other Loan Officers can offer are wonderful, but long term relationships and trust is most important. It is time to stop shopping, stop floating from broker to broker, stop wasting time, and settle down with the right broker. Am I him/her? Maybe...I think you would be doing yourself a disservice to not find out.
Reasons for giving me a call at the very least:
Education - You need someone that has the real life and real business experience, but also the formal education and licensing to absorb the whole picture, and react fast with solutions. I have it all...
Availability - Your issues are my issues. I am available whenever I am not sleeping. Even then, call, maybe I will wake up. I am never without email or my phone. If I don't answer, I will return your call. I don't dodge calls, I have nothing to hide.
Attitude - Honestly, this job is fun. Sometimes it is stressful, but if you work with a smile on your face, and keep the right attitude, the world is a better place. My clients experience it daily.
Product - You will hear other lenders proclaim that they have 250 million lenders and all that. Wonderful, they can shop all day long. I don't have time, nor the need to do that. The 20 lenders that frequent my office are sufficient, and if not one of them can do it and I can't get one of them to give me the name of someone that can, forget it, there is something far more severe going wrong than any lender can fix.
Rates - The first thing I hear from most calls I get. "What are you rates?" Truth is I have lot's of them. Some good, some bad. What do you want? What can I get for YOU? I don't know...let's find out. I have lenders that reward me for bringing you to them, and that reward is passed down to you. Your income (even if it is low) and where you live are some things my lenders reward. I don't advertise rates online in most cases because they are irrelevant, rates depend on your situation, not any one else's. Though you can get a general range online of where the MARKET is at.
Speed - I push things as fast as possible. Can I close a loan in 10 days? Sometimes...it depends on the loan and the lender. I need you to help me close as fast as possible. WE can make it fast.
Post Close Contact - I don't do your loan, and then forget about you. My regular contact with you, whether through email, snail mail, or phone, will give you the security that I am here...for good. I am proud of the work I do in all cases. If you feel I have done something wrong, all you have to do is let me know, and I will do what I can to fix it, or at least make it up to you.
Are you ready to make that last call? I know I am ready for you. Pick up the phone, make the call, and let's make it happen together.
San Francisco Home Loan, from and honest San Francisco Loan Officer.
To TIC or not to TIC.
One of the major affects of the great appreciation of San Francisco and the Bay Area, has been that it has locked out many potential buyers from being able to afford housing. The market has developed, and many other options have come out to help people get started, because let's face it, starting is the most difficult thing.
I wrote a blog about BMR (Below Market Rate) housing in San Francisco, about some of the ways you can get started. It was titled BMR- Below Market Rate Housing. This is one program.
Another that has come about a lot in San Francisco are TIC's or Tenancy in Common housing. There are many differences between TIC housing and conventional housing or condominiums, and a great place to learn about there differences is at Andy Sirkin 's website. It is a great resource.
I am not writing to plug Andy Sirkin, but I have learned a little there, but mainly to encourage people to consider all of their options. One of the main reasons TIC's have gotten a lot of press is because of their price point. They are often times priced much lower than conventional housing. The draw back is the availability of lending on these properties. There are lenders, don't get me wrong, but you can find conventional housing that might make just as much sense, and in the long run, offer you a better return on your investment. If you could borrower more money, at a much better rate, with less money down, you may be better off. There are many lenders out there offering special pricing to Low Income families, you need to find the right person that can give it to you straight, without all of the nonsense.
THE POINT- analyze all of your options. First off, what can you afford to pay per month. Secondly, do you plan on putting any money down? These questions, are the heart of what you should be looking at in any market, but most importantly in the competitive San Francisco Home Loan Market.
If you plan on paying $1500 per month, the reality is you are probably better off renting or looking in less expensive areas. The key is to find the person you trust, and doesn't just tell you what you want to hear. Owning a home is difficult, and getting a plan together for affording that home is key.
I wrote a blog about BMR (Below Market Rate) housing in San Francisco, about some of the ways you can get started. It was titled BMR- Below Market Rate Housing. This is one program.
Another that has come about a lot in San Francisco are TIC's or Tenancy in Common housing. There are many differences between TIC housing and conventional housing or condominiums, and a great place to learn about there differences is at Andy Sirkin 's website. It is a great resource.
I am not writing to plug Andy Sirkin, but I have learned a little there, but mainly to encourage people to consider all of their options. One of the main reasons TIC's have gotten a lot of press is because of their price point. They are often times priced much lower than conventional housing. The draw back is the availability of lending on these properties. There are lenders, don't get me wrong, but you can find conventional housing that might make just as much sense, and in the long run, offer you a better return on your investment. If you could borrower more money, at a much better rate, with less money down, you may be better off. There are many lenders out there offering special pricing to Low Income families, you need to find the right person that can give it to you straight, without all of the nonsense.
THE POINT- analyze all of your options. First off, what can you afford to pay per month. Secondly, do you plan on putting any money down? These questions, are the heart of what you should be looking at in any market, but most importantly in the competitive San Francisco Home Loan Market.
If you plan on paying $1500 per month, the reality is you are probably better off renting or looking in less expensive areas. The key is to find the person you trust, and doesn't just tell you what you want to hear. Owning a home is difficult, and getting a plan together for affording that home is key.
What makes a great Real Estate Agent...A Loan Officers Prospective.
I have seen many great Real Estate Agents on this website and others, I thought it would be good to share with you a couple of the key points of what makes a great Real Estate Agent, from my prospective, a Loan Officer.
I had the priviledge of meeting with Dena Dorsey of Remax in Oakland, in Alameda County, California, mainly as a thank you for her referring me a client of hers who was looking into her options. Dena had talked with the client about selling their home, they were going through a separation, and didn't really know how to handle the break up. Dena met with the prospective client, and after going through the discussion of listing the property, thought it would be a good idea to also look into refinancing. She gave them my information and we went through the options. After working the numbers, it did make it possible for the client to refinance, and for the wife to keep the house. So, long story short, I got the loan, but Dena lost the listing. I think this is one of the key factors to what makes a great Real Estate Agent. Dena could have listed the property, marketed it, and sold it, but was that really what the client wanted? Not really, they wanted options, and Dena gave them those options.
In talking over dinner at Mijori Sushi in Oakland, I got an even better impression of what a great Agent she is. Her focus in all of our discussion, was on protecting her clients, not ensuring she would get a commission. That is rare in this business, and deserves praise. Whether it was focusing all aspects of the transaction, inspection, appraisal, or even the loan, Dena has focused her efforts on ensuring the transaction is benefitial to her client, and no one else.
I think maturity, experience in the business (10 Years), and integrity go along way. These things can't be taught, they are simply absorbed, and lived out in our everyday, professional, and personal lives. Dena understands life, and certainly lives that out through Real Estate.
She is a great Real Estate Agent.
You can contact her at her website .
I had the priviledge of meeting with Dena Dorsey of Remax in Oakland, in Alameda County, California, mainly as a thank you for her referring me a client of hers who was looking into her options. Dena had talked with the client about selling their home, they were going through a separation, and didn't really know how to handle the break up. Dena met with the prospective client, and after going through the discussion of listing the property, thought it would be a good idea to also look into refinancing. She gave them my information and we went through the options. After working the numbers, it did make it possible for the client to refinance, and for the wife to keep the house. So, long story short, I got the loan, but Dena lost the listing. I think this is one of the key factors to what makes a great Real Estate Agent. Dena could have listed the property, marketed it, and sold it, but was that really what the client wanted? Not really, they wanted options, and Dena gave them those options.
In talking over dinner at Mijori Sushi in Oakland, I got an even better impression of what a great Agent she is. Her focus in all of our discussion, was on protecting her clients, not ensuring she would get a commission. That is rare in this business, and deserves praise. Whether it was focusing all aspects of the transaction, inspection, appraisal, or even the loan, Dena has focused her efforts on ensuring the transaction is benefitial to her client, and no one else.
I think maturity, experience in the business (10 Years), and integrity go along way. These things can't be taught, they are simply absorbed, and lived out in our everyday, professional, and personal lives. Dena understands life, and certainly lives that out through Real Estate.
She is a great Real Estate Agent.
You can contact her at her website .
Working late, of course!
I have come to the conclusion that blogging and expressing myself is something that I enjoy. I want to continue it as much as possible. I have also noticed that it takes away significantly from my hands on production. I guess with any new venture, it takes time to work into it, to see true results, and learn how to make it work. For me, blogging will have to take place more in off times, like at night. Not to say I won't blog during the day, the focus has to come at night. Isn't that just life!
Mary McKnight‘s Post (Betty Ford for Bloggers: 12 step program to managing blog addiction ) on Blogging is great
I think the main thing people need to do in life is give yourself some priorities. Schedule those priorities so that you continue production and make things work. When taking a huge step, like buying a new home, especially in a competitive market like the San Francisco Home Loan Market market, you must make sure you break yourself in. Similar to what people see with blogging, you can't throw all of your focus into one thing. When buying a home in this type of market, you must do your homework, and spend your money wisely. Don't put all of your money into a new pool, or building a theater, sink some money into small projects, like fixing cabinets, fixing up the garage, landscaping in sections, or even just replacing the old vanity in the bathroom.
Taking on the new weight of a home mortgage, can be overwhelming, break yourself into the payments. Get used to the fluctuation in bills other than just your mortgage. Energy bills, water bills, even garbage bills, will fluctuate throughout the year, and properly preparing for all of these events, and creating that nestegg, will prevent a lot of heartache in your new venture.
Owning a home is truly something special, you can take pride in your creation, just like blogging. But, just like blogging, you have to create something special that you can afford! Normal fluff, just won't due.
Mary McKnight‘s Post (Betty Ford for Bloggers: 12 step program to managing blog addiction ) on Blogging is great
I think the main thing people need to do in life is give yourself some priorities. Schedule those priorities so that you continue production and make things work. When taking a huge step, like buying a new home, especially in a competitive market like the San Francisco Home Loan Market market, you must make sure you break yourself in. Similar to what people see with blogging, you can't throw all of your focus into one thing. When buying a home in this type of market, you must do your homework, and spend your money wisely. Don't put all of your money into a new pool, or building a theater, sink some money into small projects, like fixing cabinets, fixing up the garage, landscaping in sections, or even just replacing the old vanity in the bathroom.
Taking on the new weight of a home mortgage, can be overwhelming, break yourself into the payments. Get used to the fluctuation in bills other than just your mortgage. Energy bills, water bills, even garbage bills, will fluctuate throughout the year, and properly preparing for all of these events, and creating that nestegg, will prevent a lot of heartache in your new venture.
Owning a home is truly something special, you can take pride in your creation, just like blogging. But, just like blogging, you have to create something special that you can afford! Normal fluff, just won't due.
Feeling Hot Hot Hot!
So the time is here. You pack up the convertible with towels, a cooler full of food and the beverages of choice, the family if applicable, and head out! Hopefully the beaches are close, because as most of you know, beach traffic can be a pain!
Here is a list of beaches in San Francisco... http://www.sealrockinn.com/beaches.html
If you are looking for a great site for beaches across the nation, check this out! http://goingtothebeach.com/
There are a lot of things that you may not consider when planning for an outing like this. Here is a quick list of some of the things you should also consider for your outing!
SUNTAN LOTION- possible the most important thing of all. Skin cancer statistics are scary, but put out there for a reason, to make sure you are protected. Check out this link for some stats: http://www.umm.edu/skincancer/stats.htm
Water- I know you think over other beverages first, but the most important is water. Not staying hydrated can really put a damper on your day.
Your car- Make sure that you have checked your oil levels, water levels, air conditioning levels...the list goes on. With higher temperatures, your car is just as vulnerable to the heat as you are. Plus you don't want to overheat and make the traffic even worse...do you!
Garbage bags- Nobody like a dirty beach, clean up after yourself, everyone will appreciate it!
Toys- Nothing like having something to entertain yourself on the beach. Make sure you bring things to make a sandcastle, maybe a football or something to stay active.
Lip Balm - No one wants kiss leatherface.
Chairs - Pack some chairs! This will help keep sand out of your "areas".
Camera - You never know what you will see, if nothing else, you can catch some picks of your loved ones!
Hat - Nothing worse than a chapped scalp.
This is what I could come up with off the top of my head. Make sure you prepare yourself for the beach so that you can make it the best trip ever!
Here is a list of beaches in San Francisco... http://www.sealrockinn.com/beaches.html
If you are looking for a great site for beaches across the nation, check this out! http://goingtothebeach.com/
There are a lot of things that you may not consider when planning for an outing like this. Here is a quick list of some of the things you should also consider for your outing!
SUNTAN LOTION- possible the most important thing of all. Skin cancer statistics are scary, but put out there for a reason, to make sure you are protected. Check out this link for some stats: http://www.umm.edu/skincancer/stats.htm
Water- I know you think over other beverages first, but the most important is water. Not staying hydrated can really put a damper on your day.
Your car- Make sure that you have checked your oil levels, water levels, air conditioning levels...the list goes on. With higher temperatures, your car is just as vulnerable to the heat as you are. Plus you don't want to overheat and make the traffic even worse...do you!
Garbage bags- Nobody like a dirty beach, clean up after yourself, everyone will appreciate it!
Toys- Nothing like having something to entertain yourself on the beach. Make sure you bring things to make a sandcastle, maybe a football or something to stay active.
Lip Balm - No one wants kiss leatherface.
Chairs - Pack some chairs! This will help keep sand out of your "areas".
Camera - You never know what you will see, if nothing else, you can catch some picks of your loved ones!
Hat - Nothing worse than a chapped scalp.
This is what I could come up with off the top of my head. Make sure you prepare yourself for the beach so that you can make it the best trip ever!
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Has my pre-qualification expired?
I got a call from a borrower that had been pre-qualified for a San Francisco Home Loan with one of our other loan officers that has since left the company, and the borrower's question to me was, "Is my pre-qualification still good?". That is a tough question, and I think that the question warrants explanation of what a pre-qualification is, and what a pre-approval is. Check out this post for some more information, it is along the right lines. ( Larry Morris- he is sort of competition because I am licensed in Oregon, but who cares! He wrote a valid piece! ) Often times, we can submit your application to a lender to render some sort of approval, and some conditions, but it will be subject to future conditions by the underwriter.
I read a post earlier by Broker Bryant titled Let's call a Real-a-tor, they'll do anything! , where he talks about showing properties to people just because they ask. Realtors and Loan Officers, have to protect themselves in any case. For anyone in the business, time is money, and you have to maximize your time.
This relates to my phone call because this individual had been walking around town looking at property, with a 6 MONTH OLD pre-approval. Explanation of a pre-approval is important, for both people in the business (Agents), as well as consumers.
A pre-qualification is simply a verification from a qualified person in the mortgage business, that this person has provided the documentation required to obtain financing at this time. There are a number of things required to get this pre-qualification: providing the correct income and asset documents need, having a credit report from the 3 credit bureaus run, performing all verifications of employment, rent or prior mortgage payment, and any funds required to close. The list can go on and on. In the past, issuing a pre-approval had been a lot easier. Since lender guidelines have changed dramatically, full proof of all items is strongly encouraged. It isn't a "no brainer" any more.
Was the 6 month old pre-qualification good? Not at all, for a couple reasons. First off, I didn't take the application. The old employee could have done something wrong through the application process, and that missing information could be critical, especially today. Secondly, suppose the borrower 2 months ago missed a Credit Card payment, this is a serious effect on the otherwise clean credit. The missing a payment, shows recent weekness in finances, and will have a significant negative effect on the score. Thirdly, did this person change jobs in the meantime. If, for instance, the borrower was an employee prior, and just started his/ her own company recently. Regardless of income, the borrowers employment history is important.
There are a list of other possible things that could have changed. Everyone needs to make sure that you are protected, yes EVERYONE. The borrower shouldn't submit an offer and put money into escrow until the proper pre-approval is obtained because they could lose their earnest money deposit. Agents shouldn't show houses to someone that isn't pre-approved because they could be wasting their precious time. Sellers shouldn't be accepting offers without a pre-approval attached. Everything stems from that pre-approval, and nothing should take place until you have one from a qualified loan officer or broker. PERIOD!
If you were pre-approved in the past, it doesn't mean you are pre-approved now. Consult with someone you trust, and make sure that everything is in order, it WILL save headaches for all parties.
Here is a little tutorial of what type of documentation will be needed for a pre-approval. To get pre-approved you can call me directly, or visit my website to fill out a secure application:
w2's, 1099's, Tax Returns for the last two years (Depending on you employment type)
Asset documentation (Retirment, 401K, 403b, CD's, everything you have, because the more the better you will look to the bank)
Verification of Rent/ Mortgage - Most lenders will require you to document that you have made some sort of mortgage or rental payment for the last 12 months. This is a case by case, but providing what you have makes it easier.)
Employer Information- The mortgage professional will likely call your employer to verify you work for the company...if applicable
Credit Report - Most times this will be provided by the mortgage professional upon your authorization.
Schedule of Real Estate - If you own other property, you should be able to document leases on those properties if you indeed collect rent on the property. Leases work in most cases because tax returns could be reporting old leases.
I read a post earlier by Broker Bryant titled Let's call a Real-a-tor, they'll do anything! , where he talks about showing properties to people just because they ask. Realtors and Loan Officers, have to protect themselves in any case. For anyone in the business, time is money, and you have to maximize your time.
This relates to my phone call because this individual had been walking around town looking at property, with a 6 MONTH OLD pre-approval. Explanation of a pre-approval is important, for both people in the business (Agents), as well as consumers.
A pre-qualification is simply a verification from a qualified person in the mortgage business, that this person has provided the documentation required to obtain financing at this time. There are a number of things required to get this pre-qualification: providing the correct income and asset documents need, having a credit report from the 3 credit bureaus run, performing all verifications of employment, rent or prior mortgage payment, and any funds required to close. The list can go on and on. In the past, issuing a pre-approval had been a lot easier. Since lender guidelines have changed dramatically, full proof of all items is strongly encouraged. It isn't a "no brainer" any more.
Was the 6 month old pre-qualification good? Not at all, for a couple reasons. First off, I didn't take the application. The old employee could have done something wrong through the application process, and that missing information could be critical, especially today. Secondly, suppose the borrower 2 months ago missed a Credit Card payment, this is a serious effect on the otherwise clean credit. The missing a payment, shows recent weekness in finances, and will have a significant negative effect on the score. Thirdly, did this person change jobs in the meantime. If, for instance, the borrower was an employee prior, and just started his/ her own company recently. Regardless of income, the borrowers employment history is important.
There are a list of other possible things that could have changed. Everyone needs to make sure that you are protected, yes EVERYONE. The borrower shouldn't submit an offer and put money into escrow until the proper pre-approval is obtained because they could lose their earnest money deposit. Agents shouldn't show houses to someone that isn't pre-approved because they could be wasting their precious time. Sellers shouldn't be accepting offers without a pre-approval attached. Everything stems from that pre-approval, and nothing should take place until you have one from a qualified loan officer or broker. PERIOD!
If you were pre-approved in the past, it doesn't mean you are pre-approved now. Consult with someone you trust, and make sure that everything is in order, it WILL save headaches for all parties.
Here is a little tutorial of what type of documentation will be needed for a pre-approval. To get pre-approved you can call me directly, or visit my website to fill out a secure application:
w2's, 1099's, Tax Returns for the last two years (Depending on you employment type)
Asset documentation (Retirment, 401K, 403b, CD's, everything you have, because the more the better you will look to the bank)
Verification of Rent/ Mortgage - Most lenders will require you to document that you have made some sort of mortgage or rental payment for the last 12 months. This is a case by case, but providing what you have makes it easier.)
Employer Information- The mortgage professional will likely call your employer to verify you work for the company...if applicable
Credit Report - Most times this will be provided by the mortgage professional upon your authorization.
Schedule of Real Estate - If you own other property, you should be able to document leases on those properties if you indeed collect rent on the property. Leases work in most cases because tax returns could be reporting old leases.
Proof of the implosion!
This post goes out to all of the people being affected by the so-called "Subprime Implosion". The effects are starting to take place. Subprime lenders are packing up and heading for the hills. I had contact with the first Subprime representative in about 3 weeks. That speaks for itself. The word from him was that many of the reps, if not close to all, are looking for new employment, some in the business, most all in other fields.
If you are an agent, and are feeling the effects, please share your experiences so far. Make sure your "pre-approvals" are coming from reputable sources, and run through the situation with the Mortgage Broker, if your are comfortable, to protect your investment into your client.
Check out this site, it is a great breakdown of why financing is a lot more difficult on our end.
Mortgage Lenders Subprime Implode
There are still a lot of good, strike that, great lenders out there, it is just a little more difficult to place borrowers with shaky credit.
If you are an agent, and are feeling the effects, please share your experiences so far. Make sure your "pre-approvals" are coming from reputable sources, and run through the situation with the Mortgage Broker, if your are comfortable, to protect your investment into your client.
Check out this site, it is a great breakdown of why financing is a lot more difficult on our end.
Mortgage Lenders Subprime Implode
There are still a lot of good, strike that, great lenders out there, it is just a little more difficult to place borrowers with shaky credit.
What makes a great Real Estate Agent...A Loan Officers Prospective.
I have seen many great Real Estate Agents on this website and others, I thought it would be good to share with you a couple of the key points of what makes a great Real Estate Agent, from my prospective, a Loan Officer.
I had the priviledge of meeting with Dena Dorsey of Remax in Oakland, in Alameda County, California, mainly as a thank you for her referring me a client of hers who was looking into her options. Dena had talked with the client about selling their home, they were going through a separation, and didn't really know how to handle the break up. Dena met with the prospective client, and after going through the discussion of listing the property, thought it would be a good idea to also look into refinancing. She gave them my information and we went through the options. After working the numbers, it did make it possible for the client to refinance, and for the wife to keep the house. So, long story short, I got the loan, but Dena lost the listing. I think this is one of the key factors to what makes a great Real Estate Agent. Dena could have listed the property, marketed it, and sold it, but was that really what the client wanted? Not really, they wanted options, and Dena gave them those options.
In talking over dinner at Mijori Sushi in Oakland, I got an even better impression of what a great Agent she is. Her focus in all of our discussion, was on protecting her clients, not ensuring she would get a commission. That is rare in this business, and deserves praise. Whether it was focusing all aspects of the transaction, inspection, appraisal, or even the loan, Dena has focused her efforts on ensuring the transaction is benefitial to her client, and no one else.
I think maturity, experience in the business (10 Years), and integrity go along way. These things can't be taught, they are simply absorbed, and lived out in our everyday, professional, and personal lives. Dena understands life, and certainly lives that out through Real Estate.
She is a great Real Estate Agent.
You can contact her at her website .
I had the priviledge of meeting with Dena Dorsey of Remax in Oakland, in Alameda County, California, mainly as a thank you for her referring me a client of hers who was looking into her options. Dena had talked with the client about selling their home, they were going through a separation, and didn't really know how to handle the break up. Dena met with the prospective client, and after going through the discussion of listing the property, thought it would be a good idea to also look into refinancing. She gave them my information and we went through the options. After working the numbers, it did make it possible for the client to refinance, and for the wife to keep the house. So, long story short, I got the loan, but Dena lost the listing. I think this is one of the key factors to what makes a great Real Estate Agent. Dena could have listed the property, marketed it, and sold it, but was that really what the client wanted? Not really, they wanted options, and Dena gave them those options.
In talking over dinner at Mijori Sushi in Oakland, I got an even better impression of what a great Agent she is. Her focus in all of our discussion, was on protecting her clients, not ensuring she would get a commission. That is rare in this business, and deserves praise. Whether it was focusing all aspects of the transaction, inspection, appraisal, or even the loan, Dena has focused her efforts on ensuring the transaction is benefitial to her client, and no one else.
I think maturity, experience in the business (10 Years), and integrity go along way. These things can't be taught, they are simply absorbed, and lived out in our everyday, professional, and personal lives. Dena understands life, and certainly lives that out through Real Estate.
She is a great Real Estate Agent.
You can contact her at her website .
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
San Francisco- What do you think about it?
I have lived in the San Francisco Bay Area my whole life, and don't really know much about the rest of the nation. I have traveled and seen many different places, but really have grown to love what we have here. Share with me some of your experiences in the wonderful Bay Area, and if you feel like it, share some of the drawbacks.
Here are some of the great things that I have seen here.
My wife and I took our engagement pictures here. It was foggy, and we couldn't see the Golden Gate Bridge, but still awesome. This is a picture I took! Do I have talent with photos?
I can't believe this place used to be a prison, I would love to live there!
Cable Cars can get you some awesome views of the City!
Coit Tower is a great place to see a different view of Alcatraz.
You know the Golden Gate Bridge. Just an unbelievable site!
My personal pic of the skyline. The weather was a little overcast, but still, with clouds, this view is awesome.
The Transamerica Building just got a major cleaning!
Please share with me some of your pictures or stories about this wonderful place!
Here are some of the great things that I have seen here.
My wife and I took our engagement pictures here. It was foggy, and we couldn't see the Golden Gate Bridge, but still awesome. This is a picture I took! Do I have talent with photos?
I can't believe this place used to be a prison, I would love to live there!
Cable Cars can get you some awesome views of the City!
Coit Tower is a great place to see a different view of Alcatraz.
You know the Golden Gate Bridge. Just an unbelievable site!
My personal pic of the skyline. The weather was a little overcast, but still, with clouds, this view is awesome.
The Transamerica Building just got a major cleaning!
Please share with me some of your pictures or stories about this wonderful place!
Technology at it's best!
These are one of the days that I really realize how wonderful technology is. I am lucky to spend the day in Sunny Sacramento, with my dad at a huge GOLF Sample Sale at Haggin Oaks Golf Club (Come by the apparrel section). I am "technically" not having an office day, but with a new laptop, I figured I might be able to get some office work done.
To my wonderful surprise, the golf club house has wireless internet. I can blog if nothing else. I am about 100 yards away from the router, and happily typing away, sharing my surprise.
Who said you can't get anything done when you are out of the office?
To my wonderful surprise, the golf club house has wireless internet. I can blog if nothing else. I am about 100 yards away from the router, and happily typing away, sharing my surprise.
Who said you can't get anything done when you are out of the office?
I do, your honor...
So for the 3rd time in the last year, I have received the most dreaded mail, anyone could get. No not the credit card bill or energy bill in the winter, I am talking about the letter from Alameda County selecting me for jury duty!
Ugh.
This is one of the most annoying and inconvenient things we as citizens must deal with. It isn't so much that we have to possibly spend a few hours in court to do my service in society, that is not the issue, my issue is having to block out my whole day, and possibly whole life (ie. Scott Peterson trial took months and months) for the "possibility" that I might have service longer than one day. If I was getting paid for services, maybe I wouldn't complain, but let's face it, the wage they pay is not something to get excited about.
The biggest complaint I have is the lack of knowledge about what we are doing. I have set a reminder for myself to call after 5 as directed, to check to see IF I have to even show up. As discussed earlier, this is the 3rd time I have gone through this in 2006-2007. The first two times I fullfilled my duties, but now I am still accountable every 6 months until I actually report in the courtroom. I guess if I don't actually serve in court, they can recycle my information every 6 months until I have completed my services entirely. So as a father of a young girl, I have to make plans, in case, I have to report. I don't know about you, but with a young one, changing plans and adapting to the court system isn't something that just happens on a dime!
The first part of this is just a rant on my part. I thought I would convey my feelings as I wait the final 10 minutes until I can call to verify if I have to report or not. Waiting...waiting....waiting...dial tone....answer...key in my code...
Ugh...part2
This is why I rant. Now, I am instructed to recall between 11 and 12 tomorrow morning for an update on my status. That means, I can't go to work (45 minutes away), and have to sit and wait for the results. Will I have to go to court, or am I relieved? Stay tuned for the next episode...
Ugh.
This is one of the most annoying and inconvenient things we as citizens must deal with. It isn't so much that we have to possibly spend a few hours in court to do my service in society, that is not the issue, my issue is having to block out my whole day, and possibly whole life (ie. Scott Peterson trial took months and months) for the "possibility" that I might have service longer than one day. If I was getting paid for services, maybe I wouldn't complain, but let's face it, the wage they pay is not something to get excited about.
The biggest complaint I have is the lack of knowledge about what we are doing. I have set a reminder for myself to call after 5 as directed, to check to see IF I have to even show up. As discussed earlier, this is the 3rd time I have gone through this in 2006-2007. The first two times I fullfilled my duties, but now I am still accountable every 6 months until I actually report in the courtroom. I guess if I don't actually serve in court, they can recycle my information every 6 months until I have completed my services entirely. So as a father of a young girl, I have to make plans, in case, I have to report. I don't know about you, but with a young one, changing plans and adapting to the court system isn't something that just happens on a dime!
The first part of this is just a rant on my part. I thought I would convey my feelings as I wait the final 10 minutes until I can call to verify if I have to report or not. Waiting...waiting....waiting...dial tone....answer...key in my code...
Ugh...part2
This is why I rant. Now, I am instructed to recall between 11 and 12 tomorrow morning for an update on my status. That means, I can't go to work (45 minutes away), and have to sit and wait for the results. Will I have to go to court, or am I relieved? Stay tuned for the next episode...
Open your ears and let me help you learn.
The news of the mortgage and real estate business is starting to take it's toll on the individuals who rely on the media to give them their news. Don't we all rely on the media for the news? The truth is, we do...
Over the last few months we have seen the much publicized impact the subprime crisis will have on the market today and in the future. Heck, we can't avoid it. I am starting to realize what a huge impact it is having on individuals who don't have the experience in Real Estate, mainly those first time homebuyers.
The market is in no way exploding with appreciation, homes aren't selling fast, the truth is, we are in an adjustment phase. I believe the impact the media is having on people who rely on it for information is going to hurt us as professionals.
We are getting a bad reputation. Some of it may be deserved on some individuals, but the reality is, people looking for advice, need to contact us with questions, and a true understanding about Real Estate. In my case, use me as a tool for Real Estate finance. I have noticed a lot more lately, that people believe word for word, what they are told on TV, in the paper, on the internet, and the reality is, you need to find the trusted contacts that live this business everyday, to give you an honest outlook on the business. We have to know what we are doing to survive in this market. Call a professional, and build a relationship over time.
When considering buying a home, open your ears to the reality of the business. Be open to hearing what professionals have to say, and if it requires it, speak with multiple individuals until you find the person that is right for you.
I like to think that I am a reputable person, but I may not be the right person for everyone. People need to do the research to find that person that IS the right match.
Over the last few months we have seen the much publicized impact the subprime crisis will have on the market today and in the future. Heck, we can't avoid it. I am starting to realize what a huge impact it is having on individuals who don't have the experience in Real Estate, mainly those first time homebuyers.
The market is in no way exploding with appreciation, homes aren't selling fast, the truth is, we are in an adjustment phase. I believe the impact the media is having on people who rely on it for information is going to hurt us as professionals.
We are getting a bad reputation. Some of it may be deserved on some individuals, but the reality is, people looking for advice, need to contact us with questions, and a true understanding about Real Estate. In my case, use me as a tool for Real Estate finance. I have noticed a lot more lately, that people believe word for word, what they are told on TV, in the paper, on the internet, and the reality is, you need to find the trusted contacts that live this business everyday, to give you an honest outlook on the business. We have to know what we are doing to survive in this market. Call a professional, and build a relationship over time.
When considering buying a home, open your ears to the reality of the business. Be open to hearing what professionals have to say, and if it requires it, speak with multiple individuals until you find the person that is right for you.
I like to think that I am a reputable person, but I may not be the right person for everyone. People need to do the research to find that person that IS the right match.
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