FSBO (For Sale By Owner) successes continue to decline

In 2002, 24 percent of all Real Estate sales were conducted without the assistance of a REALTOR®. After hovering in the 12-14 percent range for the last few years, the share of for-sale-by-owner home sales reportedly shrank to an estimated 10 percent. Of those FSBO sellers, 40 percent knew the person to whom they sold their home.

Putting it a little bit differently, 60 percent of the home sellers who chose to sell their home by owner were successful in selling their home to someone they did not know.

Part of the reason may be due to the results that REALTORS® produce as opposed to those who are selling by owner. The profile reports: “The typical FSBO home sold for $150,000, compared to $215,000 among agent-assisted home sales.”

Home Prices Dip In 62 Of 83 Orange County Zip Codes

For calendar month November — DataQuick’s freshest stats — the Orange County real estate market had homebuying patterns showing:


62 of O.C.’s 83 ZIP codes with declines in their respective median selling price. Overall, buyers’ prices were -8.0% vs. a year ago.
Taking sales volume in consideration, home-sale pricing is up in ZIPs representing 79% of the Orange County market.
5 of 83 O.C. ZIPs with median sales prices above $1 million in the period vs. 11 million-dollar ZIPs when the county median price peaked in June 2007. Since that pricing pinnacle, there’s been a 38% drop in the countywide median price!
Current million-dollar ZIPs were 3% of all sales in the most recent period tracked.
There were 4 ZIPs with medians under $250,000 vs. 4 a year ago. ZIPs with medians under a quarter million had 4% of all sales in the most recent period.
42 of 83 O.C. ZIPs had year-over-year sales declines in the period — or 51% of the market.
Overall, countywide sales were up 1.8% vs. a year ago.
4 of 83 O.C. ZIPs has sales gains of 100% or more in the period at the same time as 1 had sales drops greater than 50%!
NOTE! 7 local ZIPs had both sales gains and price gains in the period. (Highlighted in green below!) These double-gainers had combined sales volume equal to 9% of the Orange County market.

An FHA Loan Can Sometimes Be A Good Option

In a market of rules and restrictions it is nice to have a loan available to clients that do not fit into an every day conventional box. FHA is that loan. With low down payment options and more flexible guidelines, FHA is helping get new buyers into homes every day. Without FHA our housing market would be 12 times worse off.

The Basics of FHA
1) Only 3.5% down and with special grant programs as little as .5% down. Yes, 1/2% down with special grants. You can buy a $400,000 house with only $2000 down
2) Seller concessions up to 6%
Which means when you buy that $400,000 house you can get the seller to pay all your closing costs so that seriously you are only bringing $2k to the pot if you have a grant program or $14,000 if you do straight old FHA
3) Debt to income as high as 55% on the back end. That means that your housing payments + credit payments can be as much as 55% of your pre tax income. With a conventional loan where you are putting down 20% the maximum back end is 50% in special circumstances but generally caps off at 45%.
4) Credit not that great? No problem. As long as you can squeak by with a 580 (most lenders require 640) you are good. Foreclosure 3 years ago? No problem, FHA is for you.
5) No reserves Required: If all you have is that 14k for that $400,000 house that is A OK with FHA

Why You Need a Comparative Market Analysis

A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), also referred to as a home evaluation, is a report prepared by a real estate agent comparing your property to similar properties on the market. Included in the report are homes currently for sale, recently sold through the local listings database, and possibly For Sale By Owner (FSBO). It is NOT an appraisal, merely an estimate of value based on features and the condition of your home compared to other homes in your area. We can provide a free Comparative Market Analysis so you are aware of the value of your home in today's real estate market and as a valuable document required for a short sale application.

Gauging A Price On A Short Sale

How do you really know what to offer on a property listed as a short sale? Well, there really is no way to answer that question with 100% accuracy. But a few here are a few helpful tips if you are considering making an offer.

• The bank will normally accept 85% of their appraised value because at 85% they are making more on the short sale than the foreclosure and at the end of the day it's all about what is going to net them the most money.
• It depends on what the banks "b.p.o." or "broker price option" came out at. If the listing price is 215K that is typically made up by the listing agent who does his own market analysis and sets the list price from that.
• The bank can entertain any other offers it wants to. Their goal is to get as much money as it can for the home after all.
  
• Make sure that your realtor is a short sales specialist!
  

Newport Beach Real Estate Is Getting Hot!

Newport Beach CA is a famous Orange County ocean and beach, surf and sand, harbor, and back bay oriented residential and thriving commercial city.

Newport had 43 homes resold this year during November 2011 – average sold price of $1,450,658.

Newport Beach had 51 homes resold last year during November 2010 – with average sold price of $1,171,427.

So the number of Newport Beach at Orange County CA homes resold this year during November 2011 was down from last year while the average sold price was up.

Newport Beach has 436 homes now listed for sale – with average asking price at $2,492,225.

U.S. Housing Starts Jump 9.3%, To Highest In Year

Builders broke ground in November on more houses than at any time in the past 19 months, led by a surge in multifamily units, signaling the market is stabilizing heading into 2012.

Starts increased 9.3 percent to a 685,000 annual rate, exceeding thehighest estimate of economists surveyed by Bloomberg News and the most since April 2010, Commerce Department figures showed today inWashington. Building permits, a proxy for future construction, also climbed to a more than one-year high.

Work on multifamily units like apartments and townhouses is growing as the rental market improves. Single-family-home construction may be starting to strengthen as lower home prices and borrowing costs near record lows draw in some buyers, even as builders face competition from existing houses as another wave of foreclosures throws more marked-down properties on the market.

Is Your Rental Property In Foreclosure?

More “accidental” landlords are surfacing as home owners turn their underwater homes into rentals to try to come up with some extra cash. But some of these accidental landlords are still unable to keep up with their mortgage payments and may become delinquent on their mortgage.

So what’s this mean for the person renting their property?

Some renters may suddenly be served with an eviction notice when they discover the property they are renting is being foreclosed upon, and only having days to vacate.

One new web site, CheckYourLandlord.com, allows renters to check rental properties in the U.S. to see if there are any notices of default filed against the property.

Renters … or real estate professionals who represent them … can check with the county recorder’s office to see status of a property.

Payroll Tax Cut Hurts Homeowners

The Senate approved a two-month extension of a payroll tax cut Saturday which would also extend jobless benefits through February 2012 and a two-month freeze of scheduled cuts to Medicare payments to doctors.

The Senate version of this bill would be paid for by increasing home loan guarantee fees charged to Government Sponsored Enterprises (GSEs) Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac as well as the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) by one-tenth of 1 percentage point.

The increase would amount to about $15 a month more for a $200,000 mortgage.

The fee is passed on to home buyers and will apply to many new purchases and home refinancing agreements starting January 1^st 2012. The money raised would go to the Treasury Department, however, not to Fannie and Freddie.

The Mortgage Bankers Association, National Association of Home Builders and National Association of Realtors sent a letter Thursday to Sen. Bob Casey (D., PA.), the author of the tax package, saying the fees “should not be diverted for purposes unrelated to the safety and soundness of the housing finance system. “

“Fannie and Freddie are already floundering under the weight of the ongoing housing crisis and I fear this could only further worsen their ability to help struggling homeowners.” says Rep. Dennis Cardoza, D-Calif.

How To Stop The Foreclosure Process #3

3. Scrutinize the Options - After contacting your lender, or in some cases the servicing company that handles the loan for an investor, you may have other options that are readily available. As a rule, lenders are not obligated to make modificaions to your loan, but many will take it into account as a viable option--one that is a benefit for the lender and you and can include refinancing as well. Acceptable options to talk over with your lender include:

• Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure - In this option, your lender may accept the return of the title to your home, but be aware that the lender may still sue for loss and report any uncollected funds due to loss to the IRS as taxable income to you. This alternative may have negative effects on your credit report.

• Claim Advance - If you have a private mortgage lender, they will occasionally provide a cash advance to bring your mortgage payments up to date. Often this money is interest free and may not have to be repaid for years.

• Re-Amortization - In this option the payments you have missed are added to the loan balance, bringing about a current account. Your debt will be higher and your monthly payments will increase unless the lender also agrees to prolong the term of the loan.

• Loan Modification - The objective of a loan modification is to lessen the amount of payment to a degree where the borrower can routinely make their mortgage payment in addition to paying other bills. In this scenario the payments you have missed and any extra fees are appended to the balance of the loan.

• Short Sale - Acknowledged by most one of the best alternatives available to circumvent foreclosure, the short sale is a more and more popular option. In this scenario, the lender agrees to take less than what you owe on the property, alleviating the homeowner of debt. Lenders are often more than willing to accept a short sale mainly because it considerably diminishes the expense and time involved in foreclosure proceedings. In the majority of cases, a short sale does less devastation to your credit than a foreclosure. A qualified REALTOR will be exceedingly helpful in finalizing the short sale process with you.

One note of warning, beware of any company claiming that they guarantee they can stop any foreclosure no matter what you owe. A short while ago, The Federal Trade Commission compiled a list of warning signs that a "foreclosure fixer" company may be a scam. Those warnings include any company that requires you to pay for services upfront, tells you to send mortgage payments to it directly, requires you to hand over the property deed, or tells you to refrain from contacting your lender directly.

5 Great Things About Ownership

If you've been on the fence about home ownership, now is the time to take a leap! Don't let the negative press deter you from one of life's greatest joys.
Take a look at five short and sweet reasons that home ownership is great!
1. Equity. When you pay rent, you never see that money again. It is lining the landlord's pocket. Yes, buying a home may come with some hefty initial costs (down payment, closing costs, inspections), but you will make that money back over time in equity built in the home. Historically, homes appreciate by about 4 to 6 percent a year. Some areas are still experiencing normal appreciation rates. For the areas that have seen harder times since the recession, experts feel that the housing market will recover. Home ownership is about building long-term wealth. A home bought for $10,000 in 1960 is most likely worth 10 times that in today's market.

2. Relationships: Renters tend to see their neighbors come and go quickly. Some people sign year leases while others are in the community for much shorter terms. Apartment complexes also tend to have less common shared space for people to meet, greet, and socialize. Homeowners, however, have yards, walking trails, or community pools and clubhouses where they can get to know each other. Neighbors stay put much longer (at least three to five years if they hope to recoup their closing costs). This means more time to develop relationships. Research has shown that people with healthy relationships have more happiness and less stress.

3. Predictability: Well, as long as you have a fixed-rate term on your mortgage it's predictable. Most people buying homes today know that a fixed-rate is the way to go. This means your payment amount is fixed for the life of the term. If your mortgage payment is $500 today, then it will still be $500 a month in 10 years. This allows for people to budget and make solid financial plans. The sub-prime crisis meant many homeowners with adjustable rate mortgages saw their monthly payments rise and then rise some more. Home ownership, though, generally comes with a predictable table of expenditures. Even the big purchases are predictable. You know most roofs last just 15 years (or so). You know that each year you'll need to pay for the gutters to be cleaned, and so on.

4. Ownership: Okay, this is a given. Home ownership means you "own" your home. That comes with some incredible perks, though! You can renovate, update, paint, and decorate to your heart's desire. You can plant trees, install a pool, expand the patio, or do holiday decorating that would rival the Kranks (if the HOA allows!). The bottom line is this is your home and you can personalize it to your taste. Most renters are stuck with the same beige walls and beige carpet that has been standard apartment decor for 20 years. Now is your chance to let your home speak!

5. Great Deals: It's a great time to buy. Interest rates are at historic lows. We're talking 4.0 percent instead of 6.0 or higher. This means big savings for today's buyers. Home prices have also taken a dip since the recession, which means homes are more affordable than ever. If you have steady income and cash for a down payment, then be sure to talk to your local real estate agent about what homes in your area could be a fit for you.

Buying Is Better Than Renting!

According to a recent article in the Wall Street Journal, “Home prices and mortgage rates have fallen so far that the monthly cost of owning a home is more affordable than at any point in the past 15 years and is less expensive than renting in a growing number of cities.”

What this means to renters is “as a result, monthly mortgage payments on the median priced home—including taxes and insurance—are lower than the average rent levels in 12 metro areas, according to data compiled for The Wall Street Journal by Marcus & Millichap, a real-estate brokerage that tracked 27 metro areas.”

How 1st -Time Buyers Can Avoid Scams

The state of the current real estate market has brought out a number of real estate scams that have targeted first time home buyers and renters.

First time home buyers are especially susceptible to scams, because they’ve never been through the process and it makes it easy for scam artists to separate them from their hard earned money.

Here are some tips from the Better Business Bureau on how to avoid scams.

The email addresses they use usually are from yahoo, ymail, rocketmail, fastermail, live, hotmail and gmail, and they also post ads under anonymous craigslist addresses. They frequently change their aliases.

• The deal sounds too good to be true. Scammers will often list a rental for a very low price to lure in victims. Find out how comparable listings are priced, and if the sales price or rental comes in suspiciously low, walk away.
• They use photos stolen from other property advertisements or from home furnishing catalogues or hotel websites.
• They use fake names, often stolen from Facebook profiles or networking sites. Often they assume the identities of previous victims.
• What they all have in common is that sooner or later you get a request to transfer funds via Western Union, Moneygram or some other wire service.
• Never under any circumstances, wire money at the request of any prospective “landlord” via Western Union, Money Gram or any other wire service. Even if they tell you to wire the funds to a friend or relative’s name “to be safe,” it’s a trap!
• Never send a scan of your passport or other ID. These thieves will use your identity to scam others. Ask to see the landlord’s ID – record all the information you can from it.
• Use a browser to search for the person’s name who you’re dealing with. Be sure to add quotes around their name. You could add the words “fraud” or “scam” at the end of your search terms.
• Use reverse directory look up if the person has given you their telephone number. It’s important to double check that they are who they say they are.
• Visit the local county courthouse to look up property ownership for the apartment in question. Who really owns it? Is it the person you’re dealing with? Or someone else?
• Scan any provided photographs carefully. Do they match up with what you’ve seen in person? Do they look like they all came from the same place?
• They don’t ask for an application or permission to check your credit? That’s a red flag!
• Considering the current state of our economy and the rise in foreclosures, ask the landlord if they’re current on their mortgage payments, and then get their answer in writing.
• Consider using another method for obtaining a rental, i.e. real estate agent, going through a rental agency, etc.
• Always check bbb.org to see if the “company” has any complaints.

How To Stop The Foreclosure Process #2

2. Contact Your Lender - If you have run through all of your options for creating cash-flow to pay your mortgage, then it's time to reach out to your lender. Do this as soon as you possibly can! Your paramount goal in making contact with your lender is to create an agreement that will adjust your mortgage so that foreclosure proceedings can be halted before they are implemented.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

How To Stop The Foreclosure Process

There are an innumerable amount of ways that unexpected hardships can switch the happiness of owning a home into an unimaginaible burden. Perhaps you've become unemployed, or have unforeseen medical bills that are piling up, or your monthly mortgage payments have exceeded your current budget. No matter what the reason or cause of your troubles,turning a blind eye to the problem won't help, it will only make it worse. You must act immediately to fix the problem.

Here is one example of how to stop a foreclosure on your home:

1. Seek Out Other Sources - Most homeowners don't recognize the fact that they have a multitude of resources to draw from that can help in making mortgage payments to prevent foreclosure. Take into consideration the revenue created by unemployment or disability insurance and your savings as possible cash-flow resources. Other examples might include cutting the household budget by trading in expensive items like cars, boats, and motorcycles for cash or lower payments. Even retirement funds can be used, but be aware that many people with access to their retirement funds can be penalized for early withdraw and face increased income taxes.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

FHA Loan Limits Reinstated by Congress

That U.S. Congress on November 17, 2011, restored the loan limits for the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and its lending programs for two years should be good news for real estate.

The reinstated FHA loan limit formula and cap change will help make mortgages more affordable and accessible for families and buyers in 669 counties in 42 states and territories, where the average loan limit reduction after the reset last month was more than $68,000.

This reinstated the FHA loan limits through 2013 at 125 percent of local area median home prices, up to a maximum of $729,750 in the highest cost markets (the floor will remain at $271,050.)

However, Congress did not apply the loan limits restoration to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and Fannie and Freddie-backed mortgages will remain at 115 percent of local area median home prices up to $625,500.

This bill also provides for a short-term extension of the National Flood Insurance Program through December 16, 2011.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

What Should You Do With A Distressed Property?

Trying a short sale is what we recommend for Orange County CA distressed property owners ~ as long as they get needed information, including consultation with income tax professional or attorney about alternatives and consequences.

A sometimes overlooked choice for distressed property owners is to rent out all or part of their property ~ while making required payments to lenders, lien holders and for property taxes ~ and waiting out the changing market until equity can be possibly be recovered.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Short Sales Are Moving Faster In Orange County

Buyer demand for Orange County CA homes is changing with the market adjusting to new normal of after government tax incentives for home buyers (tax incentives ended last year).

Active listings of Orange County CA homes for sale inventory was down as of August compared with same time last year, and sellers might be wondering whether they missed the best time to sell. HOME SELLERS

Expected average market time for Orange County CA homes to sell as of August 2011:

Orange County overall – 3.5 months
Homes under $500k - 2.5 months - hot market favors sellers
Homes $500k to $750k - balanced and does not favor buyers or sellers
Homes Above $1 million – cold market and favors buyers

ORANGE COUNTY CA homes sales average market time is 3.5 months, based on number of PENDING SALES as compared with number of listings.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

It's Not Too Early To Prepare For Tax Day!

The Orange County CA Assessor updated its published general information for new home owners at Orange County, California.

• By law, California real estate is valued each year as of January 1 (lien date) for property tax purposes.


• Property taxes are assessed to the owner of real estate on January 1 of each year.


• Property tax bills are mailed in September to the owner of property on January 1.


• New owners may receive a tax bill with the prior owner’s name (January 1 is the controlling date).


• New owners are responsible for property tax payments as soon as they acquire the property.


• Check for unpaid taxes on the Tax Collector’s website, http://tax.ocgov.com (Pay/Review Your Property Taxes).


• Your name may not appear on the tax bill for up to 1 year.


• Homeowners that occupy their home as their principal residence may qualify for an exemption that could reduce their taxable value by $7,000 and save them about $70 per year in property taxes.


• New owners will receive a Notice of Supplemental Assessment and a Supplemental Tax Bill (this process can take up to 9 months from when you acquired the property).


• Information on tax-saving programs administered by the Assessor Department is posted on its web site.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Tax Relief Expires 12/31/2012

On December 20, 2007 President Bush Signed H.R. 3648, The Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007. The law applies to primary residences only and takes effect from January 1, 2007 through December 31, 2012. It provides relief to home owners by shielding them from the additional burden of potential federal income tax on any amount written off or forgiven by their lender in case of foreclosure or short sale. Followed on the heels of the federal debt relief the state government also enacted legislation for the same purposes but please consult with an experienced tax professional to see how the law applies in your circumstance. It is strongly advised.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Keeping Your Eye On Interest Rates

Buyers who wait for the market property values to decline run the very obvious risk of paying more annualized if rates increase. If rates go up a simple 1% buyers who were qualified for a $600,000 will now only qualify for a $550,000 home. Hoping values decrease by another 10 or 15 percent is a big chance to take. Historically rates are higher than today and many financial companies estimate the rates at 6.5 by year end. BUY NOW while there is a good inventory and the interest rates are at historic lows.

Interest Rates
	4.50%	5.00%	5.50%	6.00%	6.50%	7.00%
$200,000	$1,013.00	$1,074.00	$1,136.00	$1,199.00	$1,264.00	$1,331.00
$300,000	$1,520.00	$1,610.00	$1,703.00	$1,799.00	$1,896.00	$1,996.00
$400,000	$2,027.00	$2,147.00	$2,271.00	$2,398.00	$2,528.00	$2,661.00
$500,000	$2,533.00	$2,684.00	$2,839.00	$2,998.00	$3,160.00	$3,247.00
$600,000	$3,040.00	$3,221.00	$3,407.00	$3,597.00	$3,792.00	$3,992.00
$700,000	$3,547.00	$3,758.00	$3,975.00	$4,197.00	$4,424.00	$4,657.00
$800,000	$4,053.00	$4,295.00	$4,542.00	$4,796.00	*$5,057.00	$5,322.00
$900,000	$4,560.00	$4,831.00	$5,110.00	$5,396.00	$5,689.00	$5,988.00
$1,000,000	*$5,067.00	$5,368.00	$5,678.00	$5,996.00	$6,321.00	$6,653.00

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

All Of Your Real Estate Sales/Purchase Needs In One Place

Where Robyn’s unique perspective makes the biggest impact is in her real estate career. As a leading agent serving the coastal communities of Orange County, she uses her tireless drive and vision to help her clients spot their own opportunities in life. Robyn’s engaging personality and genuine enthusiasm for her craft are also reflected in her fiery, energetic approach. She not only excels at putting her clients in the best position possible to succeed, but she makes the entire process fun along the way.



This is your all-inclusive stop for short sales listings, professional advice, market trends and everything else you may need when seeking your next real estate purchase or sale!

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Short Sales and Foreclosures are Making Up More Than 50% of Sales!

An estimated 35,404 new and resale houses and condos were sold statewide last month. That was down 6.2 percent from 37,734 in August, and up 6.7 percent from 33,176 for September 2010. A decline from August to September is normal for the season. California sales for the month of September have varied from a low of 24,460 in 2007 to a high of 69,304 in 2003, while the average is 43,939. DataQuick's statistics go back to 1988.

The median price paid for a home last month was $249,000, the same as in August, and down 6.0 percent from $265,000 in September a year ago. The year-over-year decrease was the twelfth in a row after eleven months of increases. The bottom of the current cycle was $221,000 in April 2009, while the peak was at $484,000 in early 2007.

Distressed property sales – the combination of foreclosure resales and “short sales” – made up more than half of California’s resale market last month. With those kind of statistics, you owe it to yourself and your family to make the right choice as to whether or not a short sale is for you, and to seek out a short sale specialist.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Beware of "Foreclosure Fixers"

Beware of any company claiming that they guarantee they can stop any foreclosure no matter what you owe. A short while ago, The Federal Trade Commission compiled a list of warning signs that a "foreclosure fixer" company may be a scam. Those warnings include any company that requires you to pay for services upfront, tells you to send mortgage payments to it directly, requires you to hand over the property deed, or tells you to refrain from contacting your lender directly.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Experience You Can Count On

While Robyn puts a priority on making people feel comfortable and excited about the real estate process, she also brings a wealth of experience to the table. She’s been in the business for more than 20 years and is passionate about staying educated on the latest industry trends, laws and innovations. In addition, she also has put together a support team of dedicated professionals to ensure every aspect of your move is handled efficiently and to provide you with increased responsiveness.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Search Tools Like No Other

Ever wanted to have the tools that real estate agents do?

• Live streaming listings
• Up-to-date price reductions
• Limitless real estate search capability
• Neighborhood information

All this and more when you use the "search like an agent" link on the bottom of our homepage at RobynSeymour.com.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

You may not have to foreclose!

There are many ways to stop the foreclosure process - and a short sale is one of the best ways!

Acknowledged by most one of the best alternatives available to circumvent foreclosure, the short sale is a more and more popular option. In this scenario, the lender agrees to take less than what you owe on the property, alleviating the homeowner of debt. Lenders are often more than willing to accept a short sale mainly because it considerably diminishes the expense and time involved in foreclosure proceedings. In the majority of cases, a short sale does less devastation to your credit than a foreclosure. A qualified REALTOR will be exceedingly helpful in finalizing the short sale process with you.


Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Stay connected....

Hello,
It's easy to stay abreast of the South Orange County real estate market- and specifically short sales - here on my blog. Get updates, real estate trends, listings and other et ceteras! Here you'll find easy links above to Twitter, LinkdIn, RobynSeymour.com and Facebook as well as many other important links. You can even choose to "follow" me on this blog on the right! It's easy to stay a step ahead, and I want to help you with any or all of your real estate and short sale needs. Thank you very much!
-Robyn

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

So, just what IS a short sale anyway?

First of all - unlike its name...it ISN'T short. It can and probably will take several months 3-5 is the current average. The 'short' refers to the fact that when there isn't enough equity or ANY equity in a home sellers can ask the existing lender(s) to accept an amount "Short" or less than the amount owed to allow the property to be sold. Almost always -a lender would rather accept a settlement today with a Short Sale than proceed to a foreclosure. Why? Lenders accept short sale pay-off nearly the full value of the property and if they foreclose...which can take months and legal fees, they are then on the hook for all the same expenses they have agreed to pay for the short sale but now need to carry the home for many months if not years in a declining market. Even when the lender finally has the freedom to sell a foreclosed property, they must pay nearly all of the same fees and expenses they would have incurred on the short sale but the property may be worth less.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Real estate is still a good investment!

The case for home ownership continues to be that it’s the best way for a family or an investor to accumulate wealth and leave a legacy. Responsibly owning a plot of land is still at the core of the American Dream! Survey results from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) in October 2010 affirms that two thirds of its respondents support home ownership and more specifically feel that now is the time to buy. Today can also be a perfect time to sell if you are in the driver’s seat and operating from a perspective that empowers you to create what you want in the next year of your life.

It's still a no-brainer! With interest rates at a 60 year low, and home prices still low making it a buyers market, it's a great time to be considering buying OR selling a property. Call us if you have any questions or need help planning your next move.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Interest rates lowest rate since the 1950′s

According to Frank Nofthaft, chief economist for Freddie Mac, the current policies have the interest lowest rate since the 1950′s.

Tuesday, September 27th, 2011, 10:19 am

The average interest rate on mortgages sold to the government-sponsored enterprises in August averaged 4.56%, a drop of 1 basis point from the previous month, according to the Federal Housing Finance Agency.

It's the fifth straight month of declines since the rate to reached 4.84% in March. On Oct. 3, the Federal Reserve will begin purchasing up to $400 billion in longer-term Treasurys and new agency mortgage-backed securities as part of an effort to keep borrowing costs low.

According to Frank Nothaft, chief economist at Freddie Mac, the Fed's previous policies have already pushed interest rates to the lowest level since the early 1950s.

Any additional drop would accelerate already declining rates, according to FHFA data.

In August, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 4.63%, down 6 bps from the prior month. On all fixed- and adjustable-rate mortgages sold to the GSEs, the average rate was 4.52%, down 3 bps from July.

Roughly 30% of the purchase mortgages were "no-point" loans, the same share as the prior three months. The average term on these loans also declined more than six months to 27.6 years in August.

The average loan-to-value ratio was 77.2%, up more than one percentage point, and the average loan amount increased slightly to $214,300 in August.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Follow Us On Facebook

We're now on Facebook!

Won't you stop by and join our page? Thank you very much!

Join here

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Questions to ask your attorney

Questions you may have regarding your short sale or foreclosure

If you are a homeowner whose property is in default or on its way, then you may be considering a short sale. Here are a few questions you should ask a qualified attorney.

1. What outcome in comparison to a short sale would be better for my particular situation?

• Is a repayment plan or a short sale better for me?
• Is a forbearance plan or a short sale better for me?
• Is a loan modification or a short sale better for me?
• I have an FHA loan; is a partial claim or a short sale better for me?
• Is an assumption agreement or a short sale better for me?
• Is a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure or a short sale better for me?
• Should I file bankruptcy or would a short sale be better for me?

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Just Listed!

14762 Waverly Lane, Irvine
Offered at $369,000 MLS S652234
Here's the one you have been waiting for! 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, Single level detached
home on a very nice street and NOT a short sale. Pride of ownership shows in the
yard and landscaping. Large pull in driveway and ample street parking. This detached
home is close to UCI, freeway, shopping and schools. No mello roos and a very low
tax rate. Call listing agent for showing schedule. Fabulous Irvine schools and lovely
established neighborhood of The Willows.

View this listing on the web

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Home Evaluation

A good place to start...

A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), also referred to as a home evaluation, is a report prepared by a real estate agent comparing your property to similar properties on the market. Included in the report are homes currently for sale, recently sold through the local listings database, and possibly For Sale By Owner (FSBO). It is NOT an appraisal, merely an estimate of value based on features and the condition of your home compared to other homes in your area. We can provide a free Comparative Market Analysis so you are aware of the value of your home in today's real estate market and as a valuable document required for a short sale application.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Just Listed!

7 Acacia Tree Lane, Irvine
Beautiful and spaciouse 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2200 sq.ft home in popular University Park community near UCI - perfect plan for investor! Extensive upgrades has been already completed, including stainless steel appliances, scraped ceilings, recessed lights and gorgeous cherry wood floors. Wood-lined cathedral beamed ceilings in over-sized master. Large backyard opens to greenbelt - no one behind. Formal dining area plus eat-in kitchen. Very versatile floorplan - huge bonus room can be use as an office, additional bedroom or split into 2 rooms! Hard to beat in Irvine!
DRE #01038564
Offered at $579,000 MLS S654523

View this listing on the web

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

FHA/HUD can assist you in a short sale

FHA/HUD has recently updated their pre-foreclosure sales program offering homeowners a streamlined process for conducting a short sale. Two attractive aspects of the program are the ability for homeowners to complete a short sale with as little as 31 days being past due and cash incentives.

Below are some of the details, please contact us for a complete outline of the program including the benefits, requirements and qualifications:

• Outstanding Indebtedness Includes; Unpaid Principle Balance + Delinquint Interest + Partial Claim (If Applicable)
• HUD Will Pay Up To $1,000.00 to Borrower If Closed Within 90 days
• HUD Will Pay Up To $750.00 to Borrower After 90 days
• HUD Will Pay $1,500.00 to Junior Lien Holders
• Approvals Based on As-Is Market Value
• Damaged Properties Can Be Sold With Conditions

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Do you qualify for a short sale?

Qualifying for a Short Sale

There are many determinants that will conclude whether you qualify for a short sale or not. A short sale is a very complicated Real Estate execution and having a educated, accomplished short sale authority is chief. To conclude if a short sale of your property is feasible, please complete the form below. Please know that all correspondence will be strictly classified.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

An overview of HAFA

What is HAFA?

Take a few moments to watch this video on HAFA
(Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives)
You may have more options than you realize.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Potential benefits of a short sale

Some Potential Benefits Of A Our Short Sale Program:

• Experienced Realtor Representation
• FREE-Positively No Fees Or Cost To You
• Get Cash Back From Bank
• Mortgage Debt Assistance
• Credit Reestablishment
• Circumvent Foreclosure
• Back Taxes Can Be dismissed
• Stay In Your Home Longer & Choose A Move Out Date
• Free Rental Placement Service

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Is a Short Sale something that is right for me?

Is a Short Sale something that is right for me?

If you add up your total monthly expenses, including your mortgage, property tax payments, car payments, insurance, utilities and food and compare that to your take-home income, and see how much longer can you afford to keep up with your payments? If you have an adjustable rate, and the payment is going up, how long can you afford that? Is it worth prolonging your current financial situation?-especially if home values in your area are continuing to decline?

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Credit Scores and Their Impact

The Impact of Credit Scores

A short sale and a foreclosure are seen as the same in terms of a credit score. Both will lower the score initially 100-150 points depending where the score originally started. Being late 30 days on a house payment can cause the score to drop 100 points. Under all scenarios, the higher the original score the larger the initial point drop.
While the scores may be the same for both a foreclosure and a short sale, Fannie Mae sees someone with a short sale as a better credit risk. Financing is available after 2 years on a short sale as opposed to 5-7 years after a foreclosure.
In some cases, borrowers can get a higher credit score in just a few months and climb back to a good score depending on how the short sale is reported to the credit bureaus. After 7 years the foreclosure or short sale drops off the borrower’s credit file.

Estimated Starting Score	Approximate Time to Return to Original Score	Credit Distress
680 720 780	680 720 780	30 Days Late On a Mortgage Payment
Will Reduce to Approximately	Estimated Recovery Time
600-620 630-650 670-690	9 Months 2.5 Years 3 Years
680 720 780	680 720 780	Short Sale or Deed In Lieu of Foreclosure
Will Reduce to Approximately	Estimated Recovery Time
610-630 605-625 655-675	3 Years 7 Years 7 Years
680 720 780	680 720 780	Foreclosure or Short Sale With Amount Of Unpaid Balance Disclosed
Will Reduce to Approximately	Estimated Recovery Time
575-595 570-590 620-640	3 Years 7 Years 7 Years

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Don't Hire Just Anyone To Handle Your Short Sale

Experience You Can Count On

---

While Robyn puts a priority on making people feel comfortable and excited about the real estate process, she also brings a wealth of experience to the table. She’s been in the business for more than 20 years and is passionate about staying educated on the latest industry trends, laws and innovations. In addition, she also has put together a support team of dedicated professionals to ensure every aspect of your move is handled efficiently and to provide you with increased responsiveness.

Whether you are interested in buying or selling a primary residence or finding the ideal second home, you can count on Robyn Seymour to help you succeed. This dynamic professional believes in exploring every option to ensure her clients attain the ultimate results .

Robyn has a passion for getting more out of life each and every day. From volunteering in local charities to traveling with her daughters Cortney and Kelsey, she sees life as one big adventure. With more than 20 years of experience in South County real estate, Robyn’s knowledge, insight and dedication make her a valuable asset for home buyers, sellers and investors alike. “I have very big peripheral vision and believe in looking at every option and exploring every possibility. It’s a perspective that allows me to find the extraordinary opportunities for my clientele.”

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Short sale or foreclosure?

Short sale or foreclosure?
Sometimes it's not that clear...
Know your options!

Review your options and then decide - Can you afford to stay in your home making the payments on the mortgage and all the other expenses you have? Consider if a comparable home can be rented for less than you pay now and remember renting will not have the added costs of taxes, HOA fees, maintenance, insurances etc . etc. In MOST cases - you can rent a home for FAR LESS than what it will cost you to stay in the property. Even if the economy recovers quickly and the markets start to see value increases, your home's value may take 4, 6 even 10 years before you have equity again. Can you carry that expense and burden for YEARS just to get even? Do you want to? If you are faced with economic hardship, ill health, excessive debt or just tired of the struggle to stay afloat a Short Sale may be your answer. Let me help you personalize this decision with a NO OBLIGATION analysis of your situation and you can then make an informed decision if this might be right for you.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

Need a short sales specialist?

Can't make the Payments?

Owe More than the value
of your home ?

Loan Modification going
nowhere ?

Have you been notified of default and are facing a ticking clock to foreclosure?

My No Cost or Fee Short Sale May Be Your Solution! In fact I have been successful getting my sellers $3,000 even $5,000 to move and months to remain in your house rent and mortgage free.

If so, know that you are not alone! Thousands of homeowners in Southern California are facing the same challenges as you. You need help, expert guidance, and someone who understands the difficult choices you are facing about your home and your family. As an Orange County short sale realtor we provide homeowners FREE information and assistance with avoiding foreclosure, explaining the effects it can have on you and your family, and offering other options that may be available to you.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

It's Not Always About Home Prices!

Buyers who wait for the market property values to decline run the very obvious risk of paying more annualized if rates increase. If rates go up a simple 1% buyers who were qualified for a $600,000 will now only qualify for a $550,000 home. Hoping values decrease by another 10 or 15 percent is a big chance to take. Historically rates are higher than today and many financial companies estimate the rates at 6.5 by year end. BUY NOW while there is a good inventory.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other properties,
Visit Us on the web

The Impact of Credit Scores

A short sale and a foreclosure are seen as the same in terms of a credit score. Both will lower the score initially 100-150 points depending where the score originally started. Being late 30 days on a house payment can cause the score to drop 100 points. Under all scenarios, the higher the original score the larger the initial point drop. While the scores may be the same for both a foreclosure and a short sale, Fannie Mae sees someone with a short sale as a better credit risk. Financing is available after 2 years on a short sale as opposed to 5-7 years after a foreclosure. In some cases, borrowers can get a higher credit score in just a few months and climb back to a good score depending on how the short sale is reported to the credit bureaus. After 7 years the foreclosure or short sale drops off the borrower’s credit file. Please feel free to contact me for advice, questions or anything else that you may need.

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other proprties,
Visit us at our website

Investment Property

• Investment Opportunity!
  

Great opportunity for a first time or investment buyer! Come and check out this very clean 3bed, 2 bath, 1,189 sq.ft townhome in San Juan Capistrano. Amenities include: 2 car attached garage with great storage and built in shelving, pergo floors throughout downstairs, newer paint, scraped ceilings,wood shutters, brick fireplace in living room, and vaulted ceiling in the upstairs bedroom. Community is located on the bike/walking path to Doheny state beach and ride or walk to the harbor and beaches. Boat/RV storage, pool and spa add to the benefits of the wonderful community!

26261 Via Mistral, San Juan Capistrano
DRE #01038564
Offered at $279,000 MLS S665402

Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
www.RobynSeymour.com

• JUST LISTED

Offered at $379,000
MLS S665532
120 Nantucket Lane, Aliso Viejo
Outstanding detached 3 Bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths 1,492 Sq. Ft. condo
in highly desirable neighborhood of Aliso Viejo. Bright and open
floor plan. Perfect family neighborhood include association pool,
spa, and great schools. Close to everything!
If your property is currently listed please ignore this advertisement as it is never our intention to solicit an agents listing. DRE #01038564

Robyn Seymour CLHMS SRES ABR CRS GRI
Prudential California Realty
949-793-5088
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
For more info/details on this and other proprties,
visit www.RobynSeymour.com

Short Sales vs. Foreclosures

Subscribe to Robyn's youtube page.

Tell me...What is a Short Sale?

First of all - unlike its name...it ISN'T short. It can and probably will take several months 3-5 is the current average. The 'short' refers to the fact that when there isn't enough equity or ANY equity in a home sellers can ask the existing lender(s) to accept an amount "Short" or less than the amount owed to allow the property to be sold. Almost always -a lender would rather accept a settlement today with a Short Sale than proceed to a foreclosure. Why? Lenders accept short sale pay-off nearly the full value of the property and if they foreclose...which can take months and legal fees, they are then on the hook for all the same expenses they have agreed to pay for the short sale but now need to carry the home for many months if not years in a declining market. Even when the lender finally has the freedom to sell a foreclosed property, they must pay nearly all of the same fees and expenses they would have incurred on the short sale but the property may be worth less.

Learn more about short sales here.

Negotiating Short Sales Secrets

*** Short Sale Negotiator Secrets***

We know THE secrets to successfully short sale your home!

Unless a home has already been foreclosed, it is almost

NEVER too late to stop foreclosure.

Reasons to do a short sale:

• AVOID a FORECLOSURE

• Prevent additional damage to your credit

• It doesn’t cost you any money – it’s FREE

• You are eligible to buy another home much sooner compared to a foreclosure

• You don’t have to pay rent during short sale process – you still live in your home for FREE ANOTHER 3-12 MONTH

The Robyn Seymour Team

Call Today! 949-240-7505 or

Robyn@RobynSeymour.com

CA License# 01038564

Strategic Short Sales Work!
Robyn Seymour has had every short sale approved
20% of our listings have been strategically short sold over the past 4 months!

What is Strategic??? No hardship, money in the bank....You can afford the payments,
but the property is worth less than the mortgage???
Strategic or not,
live for 3-6 months with no payments and $3,000-$5,000 to help you move.

Call Robyn @ 949-240-7505!
Robyn@RobynSeymour.com
Visit Us On the Web
CA License #01038564

Take advantage of the season!

This is the PEAK selling season for real estate and even in this economy we are seeing buyers make the choice to take advantage of the lowest interest on record and 40-50% drop in values over the past few years… Makes perfect sense! If values drop another 10% (which they may in some price points) but interest climbs only 2% which it has been predicted to happen before the end of the year… buyers can lose tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars in purchase power for a very moderate decrease in value. (see the chart) Long term interest will offset any price reduction so buyers are willing to buy now!

So if you are thinking of buying or selling… Call me TODAY! 949-240-7505
Talk to you soon! Robyn

Let Us Help You Find The Perfect Place

*** Free Rental Finder – Beach Cities***

We can help you find the perfect place!!!

We are The Robyn Seymour Team with over 23 years of experience. Our rental agents will search all of Orange County to find you the perfect rental AT NO COST TO YOU.

Why spend hours searching the computer and driving the streets looking for rentals when our rental agents can do it

AT NO COST TO YOU.

Contact us at

949-240-7505

The Robyn Seymour Team are licensed California Real Estate agents and we are here to serve you.
Visit us on the web

Some Unknown Truths About Foreclosures

Unless a home has already been foreclosed, it is almost NEVER too late to stop foreclosure.

Reasons to do a short sale:

• AVOID a FORECLOSURE

• Prevent additional damage to your credit

• It doesn’t cost you any money – it’s FREE

• You are eligible to buy another home much sooner compared to a foreclosure

• You don’t have to pay rent during short sale process – you still live in your home for FREE ANOTHER 3-12 MONTH

Visit Robyn on the web

The Robyn Seymour Team Call Today! 949-240-7505