Is Real Estate doing well in your area? See what these people said

Is Real Estate doing well in your area? See what these people said

Introduce Yourself to Your Target Market: Your Virtual Business Card

Introduce Yourself to Your Target Market: Your Virtual Business Card

FACT: People Like to do Business With People They Know

The Internet allows you to get "known" by a ton of people virtually. So how can you do this? You join all the social networking sites you can possibly handle and "get to know" people. Interact, engage, build relationships, let them "know" you, trust you, etc. At the end of the day you find you are exhausted trying to keep up with all the new "friends" you have made on the various social platforms! The next day you get up and continue where you left off establishing, building and nurturing these relationships! Don't get me wrong, some really wonderful connections/friends can be made in this way. I have been fortunate enough to have connected with some super smart, helpful, kind, caring, and valuable people. A special thanks to...  Click to read more

What Are Your Options To Avoid Foreclosure?

What Are Your OptionsToAvoid Foreclosure HOMEOWNER OPTIONS TO AVOID FORECLOSURE 1. Short Sale A short sale is an agreement between the lender and the borrower to put your house up for sale for an amount that is less than the remaining balance of your mortgage. You have to give up your property and buy or rent another place to live in after the sale’s closing. It may totally eliminate your loan or reduce it a considerable amount and you may get assistance for relocation. Although it will still have a negative impact on your credit score, a short sale lets you recover your credit score faster than a foreclosure. 2. Refinance If the homeowner’s credit allows for a refinance and if the homeowner meets the eligibility criteria, an option is HOPE for Homeowners (H4H) a program available through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) www.hopenow.com. Real estate professionals should also urge homeowners to visit the Making Home Affordable Web site for information: www.MakingHomeAffordable.com. 3. Lender Workout Lenders often will work with distressed homeowners to help them keep their homes by reducing or rolling back interest rates, forgiving back payments

Home Owners say buying a home is better than buying gold

Home Owners say buying a home is better than buying gold

The results of a biannual survey were released this week by real estate search and marketing portal Trulia. They found that the American Dream is still alive and well with 70% being part of their personal dream.

There are also several other interesting facts. The survey found that 57% felt that owning a home is the best long term investment they could make, even better than buying gold.

The Market research firm Harris Interactive conducted the survey, which drew responses from 1,392 homeowners and 758 renters, from Aug. 30, 2011, to Sept. 1, 2011.

Below is a great infographic that shows the results.

Please take a few moments and share this with your friends.

Building a Home

Building a Home

Building a Home

If you want to build a new home, there are things you need to know before you begin. Learn about construction standards and about buying land, so you know your rights.

MPS Supplementing Model Building Codes

The Minimum Property Standards (MPS) establish certain minimum standards for buildings constructed under HUD housing programs. This includes new single-family homes, multi-family housing and healthcare-type facilities.

HUD Minimum Property Standards and How They Supplement the Model Building Codes

Until the mid-1980s, HUD maintained separate Minimum Property Standards for different types of structures. Since that time, HUD has accepted the model building codes, including over 250 referenced standards and local building codes, in lieu of separate and prescriptive HUD standards. However, there is one major area of difference between the MPS and other model building codes -- durability requirements. Homes and projects financed by FHA-insured mortgages are the collateral for these loans, and their lack of durability can increase the FHA's financial risk in the event of default. More specifically, the model codes do not contain any minimum requirements for the durability of items such as doors, windows, gutters and downspouts, painting and wall coverings, kitchen cabinets and carpeting. The MPS includes minimum standards for these, and other items, to ensure that the value of an FHA-insured home is not reduced by the deterioration of these components.

HUD Field Office Acceptance for Areas Without Building Codes

HUD requires that each property insured with an FHA mortgage meet one of the nationally recognized building codes or a state or local building code based on a nationally recognized building code. In areas where such state or local codes are used, HUD determines if the state or local code is comparable to the model building code. There are also areas of the United States that do not have building codes. If no state or local building code has been adopted, the appropriate HUD Field Office will specify a building code that is comparable to one of the nationally recognized model building codes.

Interstate Land Sales

The Interstate Land Sales program protects consumers from fraud and abuse in the sale or lease of land. In 1968, Congress enacted the Interstate Land Sales Full Disclosure Act, which is patterned after the Securities Law of 1933, and requires land developers to register subdivisions of 100 or more non-exempt lots with HUD, and to provide each purchaser with a disclosure document called a property report. The property report contains relevant information about the subdivision and must be delivered to each purchaser before the signing of the contract or agreement.

Buying Lots from Developers

Be well informed when shopping for land. Lots may be marketed as sites for future retirement homes, for second home locations, or for recreational or campsite use. However, be wary of any investment aspect that may be stressed by sales personnel. If you plan to purchase a lot which is offered by promotional land sales, take plenty of time before coming to a decision. Before signing a purchase agreement, a contract, or a check:

• know your rights as a buyer
• know something about the developer
• know the facts about the development and the lot you plan to buy
• and know what you are doing when you encounter high-pressure sales campaigns.

Generally, if the company from which you plan to buy is offering 100 or more unimproved lots for sale or lease through the mail or by means of interstate commerce, it may be required to register with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This means that the company must file with HUD and provide prospective buyers with a property report containing detailed information about the property. Failure to do this may be a violation of federal law, punishable by up to five years in prison, a $10,000 fine, or both. The information filed by the developer and retained by HUD must contain such items as these:

• a copy of the corporate charter and financial statement
• information about the land, including title policy or attorney's title opinion, and copies of the deed and mortgages
• information on local ordinances, health regulations, etc.
• information about facilities available in the area, such as schools, hospitals and transportation systems
• information about availability of utilities and water, and plans for sewage disposal
• development plans for the property, including information on roads, streets and recreational facilities
• and supporting documents, such as maps, plans and letters from suppliers of water and sewer facilities.

The company filing this information must swear and affirm that it is correct and complete, and an appropriate fee must accompany submission. The information is retained by HUD and is available for public inspection. The property report, which is also prepared by the developer, goes to the buyer. The law requires the seller to give the report to a prospective lot purchaser prior to the time a purchase agreement is signed. Ask for it. The seller is also required to have the buyer sign a receipt acknowledging receipt of the property report. Do not sign the receipt unless you have actually received the property report. Check the developer’s property report before buying. This is the kind of information you will find in a property report:

• distances to nearby communities over paved and unpaved roads
• existence of mortgages or liens on the property
• whether contract payments are placed in escrow
• availability and location of recreational facilities
• availability of sewer and water service or septic tanks and wells
• present and proposed utility services and charges
• the number of homes currently occupied
• soil and foundation conditions which could cause problems in construction or in using septic tanks
• and the type of title the buyer may receive and when it should be received.

Read the Property Report Before Signing Anything

This report is prepared and issued by the developer of this subdivision. It is not prepared or issued by the federal government. Federal law requires that you receive this report prior to signing a contract or agreement to buy or lease a lot in this subdivision. However, no federal agency has judged the merits or value of the property. If you received the report prior to signing a contract or agreement, you may cancel your contract or agreement by giving notice to the seller any time before midnight of the seventh day following the signing of the contract or agreement. If you did not receive this report before you signed a contract or agreement, you may cancel the contract or agreement any time within two years from the date of signing.

Your Contract Rights

If the lot you are buying is subject to the jurisdiction of the Interstate Land Sales Full Disclosure Act, the contract or purchase agreement must inform you of certain rights given to buyers by that Act. The contract should state that the buyer has a "cooling-off" period of seven days (or longer, if provided by state law) following the day that the contract is signed to cancel the contract, for any reason, by notice to the seller, and get his or her money back. Furthermore, unless the contract states that the seller will give the buyer a warranty deed, within 180 days after the contract is signed, the buyer has a right to cancel the contract for up to two years from the day that the contract is signed, unless the contract contains the following provisions:

• a clear description of the lot so that the buyer may record the contract with the proper county authority
• the right of the buyer to a notice of any default (by the buyer), and at least 20 days after receipt of that notice to cure or remedy the default
• a limitation on the amount of money the seller may keep as liquidated damages, of 15% of the principal paid by the buyer (exclusive of interest) or the seller's actual damages, whichever is greater.

Contract Rights Concerning Property Reports

It has always been the law that if the developer has an obligation to register with the Interstate Land Sales Division, the developer or sales agent must give the buyer a copy of the current property report before the buyer signs a contract. Otherwise, the buyer has up to two years to cancel the contract and get their money back. That fact must also be clearly set forth in all contracts. You may have the right to void the contract if the subdivision has not been registered with HUD, or you were not given a property report. Furthermore, if the developer has represented that it will provide or complete roads, water, sewer, gas, electricity or recreational facilities in its property report, in its advertising, or in its sales promotions, the developer must obligate itself to do so in the contract, clearly and conditionally (except for acts of nature or impossibility of performance). In addition to the right to a full disclosure of information about the lot, the prospective buyer may have the right to void the contract and receive a refund of their money if the developer has failed to register the subdivision with HUD or has failed to supply the purchaser with a property report. While a purchaser may have the right to void the contract with the developer under these conditions, the purchaser may still be liable for contract payments to a third party if that contract has been assigned to a financing institution or some similar entity. The registration is retained by HUD and is available for public inspection. If the property report contains misstatements of fact, if there are omissions, if fraudulent sales practices are used, or if other provisions of the law have been violated, the purchaser may also sue to recover damages and actual costs and expenses in court against the developer. However, depending on when your sale occurred, you may be barred from taking further action due to the Act's statute of limitations. Your attorney can advise you further on this matter.

"Cooling-Off" Period

Even if you received the property report prior to the time of your signing of the contract or agreement, you have the right to revoke the contract or agreement by notice to the seller until midnight of the seventh day following the signing of the contract. You should contact the developer, preferably in writing, if you wish to revoke your contract and receive a refund of any money paid to date. Even if the property report is delivered to you before you sign a sales agreement, the law gives you a "cooling-off " period. This right cannot be waived.

A Word About the Interstate Land Sales Division

The HUD unit which administers the law, examines the developer's registration statement, and registers the land sales operator is the Interstate Land Sales Division. Except for disclosure purposes, this office is not concerned with zoning or land-use planning, and has no control over the quality of the subdivision. It does not dictate what land can be sold, to whom, or at what price. It cannot act as a purchaser's attorney. But it will help purchasers secure the rights given to them by the Interstate Land Sales Full Disclosure Act. HUD is authorized by law to conduct investigations and public hearings, to subpoena witnesses and secure evidence, and to seek court injunctions to prevent violations of the law. If necessary, HUD may seek criminal indictments. HUD is authorized by law to conduct investigations and, if necessary, seek criminal indictments.

Exemptions from the Law

The prospective buyer should be aware that not all promotional land sales operations are covered by the law. If the land sales program is exempt, no registration is required by HUD, and there will be no property report. Here are some of the specific situations for which the statute allows exemptions without review by HUD, including the sale of:

• tracts of fewer than 100 lots which are not otherwise exempt
• lots in a subdivision where every lot is 20 acres or more in size
• lots upon which a residential, commercial or industrial building has been erected, or where a sales contract obligates the seller to build one within two years
• certain lots which are sold only to residents of the state or metropolitan area in which the subdivision is located
• certain low-volume sales operations (no more than 12 lots a year)
• certain lots that meet certain local codes and standards and are zoned for single-family residences or are limited to single-family residences by enforceable codes and restrictions
• and certain lots, contained in multiple sites of fewer than 100 lots each, offered pursuant to a common promotional plan.

Other exemptions are available which are not listed above. If you have reason to believe that your sale is not exempt and may still be covered by the law, contact the Interstate Land Sales Division.

Know the Developer

Knowing your rights under the law is the first step in making a sensible land purchase. To exercise those rights, you also must know something about the honesty and reliability of the developer who offers the subdivision that interests you. Don’t fail to ask questions. Whether you are contacted by a sales agent on the phone or by mail, at a promotional luncheon or dinner, in a sales booth at a shopping center, or in the course of your own inspection of the subdivision, make it your business to find out all you can about the company and the property. In addition, get any verbal promises or representations in writing. Don’t fail to ask questions. If you are seriously interested in buying a lot, ask if the company is registered with HUD or is entitled to an exemption. Request a copy of the property report and take the time to study it carefully and thoroughly. If you still have unanswered questions, delay any commitment until you have investigated. Discuss current prices in the area with local independent brokers. Talk to other people who have purchased lots. A local Chamber of Commerce, Better Business Bureau, or consumer protection group may have information about the seller's reputation. Inquire through county or municipal authorities about local ordinances or regulations affecting properties similar to that which you plan to buy. Don't be high-pressured by sales agents.

Know the Facts About the Lot

Once you have decided on an appealing subdivision, inspect the property. Don't buy "sight unseen." Better yet, hire a Home Inspector to perform a thorough property inspection. Also, check the developer's plans for the project and know what you are getting with your lot purchase. It's a good idea to make a list of the facts you will need to know. Some of the questions you should be asking, and answering, are these:

• How large will the development become?
• What zoning controls are specified?
• What amenities are promised?
• What provision has the developer made to assure construction and maintenance?
• What are the provisions for sewer and water service?
• Are all of the promised facilities and utilities in the contract?
• Will there be access roads or streets to your property, and how will they be surfaced? Who maintains them? How much will they cost?
• Will you have clear title to the property? What liens, reservations or encumbrances exist?
• Will you receive a deed upon purchase or a recordable sales contract?
• What happens to your payments? Are they placed in a special escrow account to pay for the property, or are they spent at once by the developer?
• If the developer defaults on the mortgage or goes bankrupt, could you lose your lot and investment to date to satisfy a claim against the development?
• What happens when the developer moves out? Is there a homeowners' association to take over community management?
• Are there restrictions against using the lot for a campsite until you are ready to build?

Are there any annual maintenance fees or special assessments required of property owners?
This is a partial list of points to consider before you commit your money or your signature.

Know What You are Doing

Interstate land sales promotions often are conducted in a high-pressure atmosphere that sweeps unsophisticated buyers along. Before they are aware that they have made a commitment, these buyers may have signed a sales contract and started to make payments on a lot. They may be delighted with the selection made, but, if not, it may be too late for a change of mind.

Nine Dishonest Sales Practices

Here are some of the practices avoided by reliable sales operations. Watch out for them and exercise sales resistance if you suspect they are occurring:

1. concealing or misrepresenting facts about current and resale value. Sales agents may present general facts about the area’s population growth, industrial or residential development, and real estate price levels as if they apply to your specific lot. You may be encouraged to believe that your piece of land represents an investment which will increase in value as regional development occurs. A sales agent may tell you that the developer will re-sell the lot, if you request. This promise may not be kept. Future resale is difficult or impossible in many promotional developments because much of your purchase price -- sometimes as much as 40% -- has gone for an intensive advertising campaign and commissions for sales agents. You are already paying a top price and it is unlikely that anyone else would pay you more than you are paying the developer. You may even have to sell for less than the price you originally paid for the lot. Sales promotions often are conducted in a high-pressure atmosphere. Furthermore, when you attempt to sell your lot, you are in competition with the developer, who probably holds extensive, unsold acreage in the same subdivision. In most areas, real estate brokers find it impractical to undertake the sale of lots in subdivisions and will not accept such listings. It is unlikely that the lot you purchase through interstate land sales represents an investment, in the view of professional land investors. Remember, the elements of value of a piece of land are its usefulness, the supply, the demand, and the buyer's ability to re-sell it. The Urban Land Institute estimates that land must double in value every five years to justify holding it as an investment. In some areas, the cost of holding the land, such as taxes and other assessments, can run as high as 11% a year.
2. failure to honor refund promises or agreements. Some sales promotions conducted by mail, email or long-distance telephone include the offer of a refund if the property has been misrepresented, or if the customer inspects the land within a certain period of time and decides not to buy. When the customers request the refund, s/he may encounter arguments about the terms of the agreement. The company may even accuse its own agent of having made a money-back guarantee without the consent or knowledge of the developer. Sometimes, the promised refund is made, but only after a long delay.
3. misrepresentation of facts about the subdivision. This is where the property report offers an added measure of protection. A sales agent may offer false or incomplete information relating to either a distant subdivision or one which you visit. Misrepresentations often relate to matters such as the legal title, claims against it, latent dangers (such as swamps or cliffs), unusual physical features (such as poor drainage), restrictions on use, or lack of necessary facilities and utilities. Read the property report carefully with an eye to omissions, generalizations, or unproved statements that may tend to mislead you. If you are concerned about overlooking something important, discuss the report and the contract with a lawyer who understands real estate matters. The developer also may use advertisements that imply that certain facilities and amenities are currently available when they are not. Read the property report to determine whether these facilities and amenities are actually completed, or proposed to be completed in the future. If the company advertises sales on credit terms, the Truth in Lending Act requires the sales contract to fully set forth all terms of financing. This information must include total cost, simple annual interest, and total finance charges. 
4. failure to develop the subdivision as planned. Many buyers rely upon the developer's contractual agreement or a verbal promise to develop the subdivision in a certain way. The promised attractions that influenced your purchase (golf course, marina, swimming pool, etc.) may never materialize after you become an owner. If they are provided, it may be only after a long delay. If you are planning on immediate vacation use of the property, or are working toward a specific retirement date, you may find that the special features promised of the development are not available when you need them.
5. failure to deliver deeds and/or title insurance policies. Documents relating to the sales transaction may not be delivered as promised. Some sales in the promotional land development industry are made by contract for a deed to be delivered when the purchaser makes the last payment under the terms of the contract. A dishonest developer may fail to deliver the deed, or deliver it only after a long delay. A sales agent may offer false or incomplete information.
6. abusive treatment and high-pressure sales tactics. Some sales agents drive prospective customers around a subdivision in automobiles equipped with citizen band radios which provide a running commentary on lot sales in progress. The customer may be misled by this and other sales techniques to believe that desirable lots are selling rapidly and that a hurried choice must be made. Hurrying the buyers into a purchase they may later regret is only one ploy of high-pressure sales agents. More offensive is abusive language used to embarrass customers who delay an immediate decision to buy. In some instances, hesitant buyers have been isolated in remote or unfamiliar places where transportation is controlled by the sales agent or the agent's organization.
7. failure to make good on sales inducements. Free vacations, gifts, savings bonds, trading stamps, and other promised inducements are used to lure people to sales presentations or to development sites. These promised treats may never materialize. Sometimes, special conditions are attached to the lure, or a customer is advised that gifts go only to lot purchasers. A "free vacation" may be the means of delivering the prospective buyer to a battery of high-pressure sales agents in a distant place. The promised attractions may never materialize.
8. "bait and switch" tactics. Lots are frequently advertised at extremely low prices. When prospective buyers appear, they are told that the low-priced lots are all sold and then are pressured to buy one that is much more expensive. If the cheaper lot is available, it may be located on the side of a cliff or in another inaccessible location. If accessible, it may be much too small for a building or have other undesirable features. The buyers may be lured to the property with a certificate entitling them to a "free" lot. Often, the certificate bears a face value of $500 to $1,000. If the buyers attempt to cash it in, the amount is simply included in the regular price (often inflated) of the lot they choose. Often, this so-called "bait and switch" technique has a delayed fuse. Buyers who purchase an unseen lot for later retirement may be unpleasantly surprised when they visit the development. The lot they have paid for may be remote from other homes, shopping and medical facilities. It may be insufficiently developed for use. When the buyers complain, sales personnel attempt to switch them to a more expensive lot, applying the money paid for the original lot to an inflated price for the new one, and tacking on additional financing charges. If the unhappy purchasers lack sufficient funds to accept this alternative, they are left with an unusable, unmarketable first choice.
9. failure to grant rights under the Interstate Land Sales Full Disclosure Act. Purchasers may not be given copies of the property report before they sign a sales contract. Some sales agents withhold this detailed statement until customers choose a specific lot. Sometimes, the buyers receive the report in a mass of promotional materials and legal documents. Unaware that the report is in their possession, they fail to read and understand it before signing a sales contract.

Requestmaster.com: Iconic Ventures is our Featured Business Of the Week

Requestmaster.com: Iconic Ventures is our Featured Business Of the Week

Iconic Ventures is our Featured Business Of the Week

Iconic Ventures is our Featured Business Of the Week

Featured Business of the Week

The person behind the business.

By Requestmaster.com

This week we’d like you to meet:

Iconic Ventures, LLC
West Palm Beach, FL

President: Dr. Branon A. Edwards

Dr. Edwards was born in Virginia, but his family moved to South Florida when he was just two years old. He jokingly refers to himself as a “Semi-Native Floridian.” Branon graduated from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 1991 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy that included a pre-med course of study and a personal concentration in ethics. He has since received Honorary Doctorates in Divinity and Fine Arts from the Palm Beach Theological Seminary College (PBTSC). He and his wife just celebrated

Read More....

Are Real Estate Sales Improving? Share your thoughts

Are Real Estate Sales Improving? Share your thoughts

Are Real Estate Home Sales Improving?
According to the California Association of Realtors, California's market, they are predicting, will only see small gains in 2012.

Here are a few of their predictions:
Sales of existing single family homes will increase statewide in 2012 by 5,100 units to 496,000 houses.
The median home price will rise by $5,000 to $296,000 dollars which is still shy of the 2010 median home price of $303,100.

In general, the California Association of Realtors indicates that home sales are moving forward, however progress is dependant on market conditions and the job outlook. In many cases, some of the concerns are for those individual that owe more than the home is worth.

How are conditions in your area? Are they Improving? Let's hear how things are going around in different states. Please share your comments and thoughts below.

15 Tools Every Homeowner Should Own

15 Tools Every Homeowner Should Own

The following items are essential tools, but this list is by no means exhaustive. Feel free to ask a Home Inspector during your next inspection about other tools that you might find useful.

1. Plunger
A clogged sink or toilet is one of the most inconvenient household problems that you will face. With a plunger on hand, however, you can usually remedy these plumbing issues relatively quickly. It is best to have two plungers -- one for the sink and one for the toilet.

2. Combination Wrench Set
One end of a combination wrench set is open and the other end is a closed loop. Nuts and bolts are manufactured in standard and metric sizes, and because both varieties are widely used, you’ll need both sets of wrenches. For the most control and leverage, always pull the wrench toward you, instead of pushing on it. Also, avoid over-tightening.

3. Slip-Joint Pliers
Use slip-joint pliers to grab hold of a nail, a nut, a bolt, and much more. These types of pliers are versatile because of the jaws, which feature both flat and curved areas for gripping many types of objects. There is also a built-in slip-joint, which allows the user to quickly adjust the jaw size to suit most tasks.

4. Adjustable Wrench
Adjustable wrenches are somewhat awkward to use and can damage a bolt or nut if they are not handled properly. However, adjustable wrenches are ideal for situations where you need two wrenches of the same size. Screw the jaws all the way closed to avoid damaging the bolt or nut.

5. Caulking Gun
Caulking is the process of sealing up cracks and gaps in various structures and certain types of piping. Caulking can provide noise mitigation and thermal insulation, and control water penetration. Caulk should be applied only to areas that are clean and dry.

6. Flashlight
None of the tools in this list is of any use if you cannot visually inspect the situation. The problem, and solution, are apparent only with a good flashlight. A traditional two-battery flashlight is usually sufficient, as larger flashlights may be too unwieldy.

7. Tape Measure
Measuring house projects requires a tape measure -- not a ruler or a yardstick. Tape measures come in many lengths, although 25 feet is best. Measure everything at least twice to ensure accuracy.

8. Hacksaw
A hacksaw is useful for cutting metal objects, such as pipes, bolts and brackets. Hacksaws look thin and flimsy, but they’ll easily cut through even the hardest of metals. Blades are replaceable, so focus your purchase on a quality hacksaw frame.

9. Torpedo Level
Only a level can be used to determine if something, such as a shelf, appliance or picture, is correctly oriented. The torpedo-style level is unique because it not only shows when an object is perfectly horizontal or vertical, but it also has a gauge that shows when an object is at a 45-degree angle. The bubble in the viewfinder must be exactly in the middle -- not merely close.

10. Safety Glasses / Goggles
For all tasks involving a hammer or a power tool, you should always wear safety glasses or goggles. They should also be worn while you mix chemicals.

11. Claw Hammer
A good hammer is one of the most important tools you can own. Use it to drive and remove nails, to pry wood loose from the house, and in combination with other tools. They come in a variety of sizes, although a 16-ounce hammer is the best all-purpose choice.

12. Screwdriver Set
It is best to have four screwdrivers: a small and large version of both a flathead and a Phillips-head screwdriver. Electrical screwdrivers aresometimes convenient, but they're no substitute. Manual screwdrivers can reach into more places and they are less likely to damage the screw.

13. Wire Cutters
Wire cutters are pliers designed to cut wires and small nails. The side-cutting style (unlike the stronger end-cutting style) is handy, but not strong enough to cut small nails.

14. Respirator / Safety Mask
While paints and other coatings are now manufactured to be less toxic (and lead-free) than in previous decades, most still contain dangerous chemicals, which is why you should wear a mask to avoid accidentally inhaling. A mask should also be worn when working in dusty and dirty environments. Disposable masks usually come in packs of 10 and should be thrown away after use. Full and half-face respirators can be used to prevent the inhalation of very fine particles that ordinary facemasks will not not stop.

15. Duct Tape
This tape is extremely strong and adaptable. Originally, it was widely used to make temporary repairs to many types of military equipment. Today, it’s one of the key items specified for home emergency kits because it is water-resistant and extremely sticky.

Position Yourself for More Business

Position Yourself for More Business

The West Kendall Business Association (WKBA) will host its 6th Annual Business Expo on Thursday, October 13 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Lexus of West Kendall (13750 SW 136th Street, Miami 33186). The expo will be held in the magnificent 3rd Floor Gallery of the dealership with windows all around. There is ample complimentary parking for over 1500 attendees.

WKBA has been hosting highly successful expos for several years. Last year’s expo attracted 110 exhibitors and drew more than 1200 visitors. This is an excellent opportunity to showcase your business, products and services to other businesses and the growing South Miami-Dade community.

The WKBA Expo is widely advertised using a wide range of print, online and broadcast media. This is especially valuable to our sponsors who are recognized and promoted from now until the day of the event. “Marketing for businesses is crucial and gives businesses the opportunity to reach a large and desirable demographic. Through the WKBA Expo, we’re providing opportunities for businesses to expand and grow in an effort to continue to make West Kendall the friendliest place to do business,” says WKBA Chairman Frank Irizarry.

Sponsors to date include: West Kendall Corporate Sponsors –Miami’s Community Newspapers; Kendall Drive Corporate Sponsors – Mercantil Commerce Bank, University Credit Union; Killian Drive Corporate Sponsors -Town Care Dental; Mills Drive Corporate Sponsors - The Palms Town/Country.

Reserve you spot today by calling 305-386-4030 or you can sign up online at www.westkendallbusiness.com.

Al Farooq is our Featured Business of the Week

Al Farooq is our Featured Business of the Week

Featured Business of the Week

The person behind the business.

By Requestmaster.com

This week we’d like you to meet:

Al-Farooq Corporation

Owner: Farzana Farooq

My name is Farzana Farooq and I came to the United States in 1977 from Pakistan. I was married for 32 years to the late Dr. Humayoun Farooq. I am the mother of 5 children and grandmother of 2. I have a Masters degree in economics and another Masters degree in international studies.

So why did Farzana Farooq start Al-Farooq Corporation?

Al-Farooq Corporation was established in 1982 by my late husband and me, and I was the Secretary of Board of Directors up until 2009, when I took over the company and became president / owner. The purpose of starting the business was to establish a team of experts to provide engineering services for the glazing industry.

Dr. Humayoun Farooq, a graduate Civil Engineer from Pakistan, arrived in Miami in 1967 to continue his studies at the University of Miami. During this time, he also taught Civil Engineering. After graduation he obtained a resident’s visa and was hired by a company where he helped design several of the bridges spanning Florida’s highway system.

His next stop was at Miami Dade County Building Department, Product Control Section where he served for 10 years. In the meantime, he obtained a Doctor of Arts degree in structural engineering from University of Miami. Seeking to advance himself in the profession, he left the Building Department and established a partnership with another engineer. This lasted for 1 year until he decided to continue offering his services and expertise founding his own company: Al-Farooq Corporation.

This change required a great effort and sacrifice where we put in long hours together in order to establish the business as a recognized engineering firm, where I served as secretary and consultant on business matters. Besides Florida, Dr. Farooq obtained professional licenses in over 20 other U.S. states including Hawaii, New York, California & Texas. Sometime during this period he met another engineer who put him in touch with Renato Mazarantany and his company ‘Glassalum’ where he became an important cog in the process of calculating and engineering curtain wall systems that were manufactured in Miami, and then sent to job sites in New York.

His work was reviewed and approved by noted threshold engineering firms in New York for many high rise buildings.

In 1987, he brought on board Mr. Enrique Soto who had 20 years of experience in the product design portion of the business. From this point, AFC set a steady growth curve that continues to this day.

Due to the professional acumen of the staff and the team work spirit established through the years, the April 2009 passing of Dr. Humayoun Farooq was felt by all at AFC and throughout the industry, but allowed AFC to continue to provide the quality service that is reflected in the many Notices of Acceptance for various glazing and storm protection products that can be viewed at the Miami Dade County and State of Florida websites.

So what is important to Farzana Farooq?

Aside from my professional life, I care deeply about my family, their children, and general community welfare. I was a community activist representing Asian American points of view regarding community issues and international affairs and have assisted in various ethnic and cultural events to promote multicultural harmony in conjunction with other Asian American community organizations, Miami Herald and WLRN17.

As part of Board of Directors of Universal Heritage Institute (25 years), my goal was to increase understanding among various ethnic groups in the community, including rehabilitation of Earthquake victims worldwide and at home with Hurricane Katrina (financial help). I was part of the team that resulted in establishing a free medical clinic in Miami Gardens.

Gardening is a favorite hobby of mine and I specialize in exotic and tropical fruits. I am constantly providing fresh fruit to the office staff, family, friends, and clients.

I find gardening very relaxing and refreshing. It is so special when you pick a fruit from your own garden and share with family and friends. I have 72 fruit trees and 23 types of fruits including Mango, Lychee, Longan, Avocado, Jujubes, Lime, Lemon, Anon and many others.

Since last year, I have joined the Rare Fruit Council in search to educate myself about tropical fruit gardening. I also volunteered for several years with the Asian Festival at Fruit and Spice Park on behalf of Asian American Advisory Board and Universal Heritage Institute.

So what makes Farzana Farooq want to get up and out of bed every day and go to work?
The unprecedented economic circumstances of the past 3 years are an obligation to not only to get to work, but to do my best every single day. I have a relentless belief in never giving up, not lowering my standards and being innovative. No matter the challenges, you have to have courage to continue. It is important to me to keep running the company as it honors my late husband’s legacy and employees who have helped establish standards in the glazing industry that we are known for.

So what has made Farzana Farooq who she is today?

Being free spirited and open minded along with hard work and honesty are the characteristics that have made me the person I am today.

If you would like to contact the Al Farooq corporation please do so via these pages:

Requestmaster.com Profile: http://www.requestmaster.com/Al-Farooq-Corporation.908.MIAMI.Florida.html

Company Page: http://afceng.com/indexx.html

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Ladybug Pest Management is the Featured Business of the Week

Ladybug Pest Management is the Featured Business of the Week

Featured Business of the Week

The people & the beagle behind the business.

By RequestMaster.com

This week we’d like you to meet:

(Photo on Right) Ladybug Pest Management, Inc. & (Ladybug Canine Scent Detection Services)

Owners: Frank & Sandy Honess

Residing in the 1st State of Delaware, Frank & Sandy Honess started Ladybug Pest Management, Inc. in January of 2010. Prior to Ladybug, they owned a construction company (Honess Construction & Backhoe Service, Inc.) for 20 years. Unfortunately, the economic down slide took a huge toll on their construction company and forced them to end the business. Sandy remained working in the legal arena as a Legal Assistant and Frank was very fortunate to find a position as a Service Mgr. for Orkin Pest Control in Maryland. He loved the pest control business. However, after working for himself for 20 years, it was very difficult to adjust to a large corporate environment. He was not happy and knew he had to do something else. Thus, the beginning of Ladybug Pest Management. With the bed bug resurgence, Frank and Sandy decided to send a rescued beagle, named Daisey, to a training facility to learn to scent live bed bugs and their eggs. She was a star pupil and graduated with high honors! We now have our 2nd canine (“Dolley”) in training to join Daisey in the Fall. “Hello, Dolley, Good-bye Bed bugs”

So what is important to Frank & Sandy?

Our family (which includes our 4 dogs), friends and customers are very important to us. We pride ourselves on being a family-owned business. We treat each customer and job performed as if we were doing that service for our Mom or Dad. We are a firm believer in doing the job right the first time. But also standing behind our work, if the need arises to return for any reason. Exceptional Customer Service is so important in these days and economic times. Many times folks are looking for the best and sometimes a lower price. However, the relationships we build with our customers, offering to go above and beyond, we believe has made the difference when a customer makes a choice on choosing their pest control company.

So what makes Frank & Sandy want to get up and out of bed every day and go to work?

We thoroughly enjoy what we are doing. We love the pest control industry. Bed bugs have been a huge part of our business for the past year, with no immediate end in sight. We like helping people and educating them regarding pests. We are honest with our potential customers and if there is something they can do on their own, to save them money, we will advise them on do-it-yourself tips, etc… We have always had a love of dogs and our canine scent detection beagles have been a huge blessing for Ladybug. Although “Daisey & Dolley” are working dogs, we love them as much as our other two non-working beagles. It still amazes us how smart these dogs are at finding bed bugs.

So what has made Frank & Sandy who they are today?

We give thanks to God. We believe that He opened the door for us to begin Ladybug Pest Management when we had to end our construction company. Even though we wish we were a little younger, we know that Ladybug will continue to grow and we are so thankful for all of our customers who have brought us into our 2nd year of business success. Although our parents are no longer with us, we owe so much to them for their love and support . We thank them for instilling in us the hard work attitude, moral values and perseverance it has taken and will continue to take for Ladybug to offer our customers and new customers the best service we can.

If you would like to reach Frank and Sandy please do so via these pages:

LadybugPM Profile: http://www.requestmaster.com/Ladybug-Pest-Management-&-Canine-Scent-Detection-Services-for-Bed-Bugs.902.DELMAR.Delaware.html

Ladybug PM Website: http://www.ladybugpm.com

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Air Sampling for Mold Inspections

Air Sampling for Mold Inspections

Taking air samples during a mold inspection is important for several reasons. Mold spores are not visible to the naked eye, and the types of mold present can often be determined through laboratory analysis of the air samples. Having samples analyzed can also help provide evidence of the scope and severity of a mold problem, as well as aid in assessing human exposure to mold spores. After remediation, new samples are typically taken to help ensure that all mold has been successfully removed.

Air samples can be used to gather data about mold spores present in the interior of a house. These samples are taken by using a pump that forces air through a collection device which catches mold spores. The sample is then sent off to a laboratory to be analyzed. InterNACHI inspectors who perform mold inspections often utilize air sampling to collect data, which has become commonplace.

Air-Sampling Devices

There are several types of devices used to collect air samples that can be analyzed for mold. Some common examples include:
•impaction samplers that use a calibrated air pump to impact spores onto a prepared microscope slide;

•cassette samplers, which may be of the disposable or one-time-use type, and also employ forced air to impact spores onto a collection media; and

•airborne-particle collectors that trap spores directly on a culture dish. These may be utilized to identify the species of mold that has been found.

When and When Not to Sample

Samples are generally best taken if visual, non-invasive examination reveals apparent mold growth or conditions that could lead to growth, such as moisture intrusion or water damage. Musty odors can also be a sign of mold growth. If no sign of mold or potential for mold is apparent, one or two indoor air samples can still be taken, at the discretion of the inspector and client, in the most lived-in room of the house and at the HVAC unit.

Outdoor air samples are also typically taken as a control for comparison to indoor samples. Two samples -- one from the windward side and one from the leeward side of the house -- will help provide a more complete picture of what is in the air that may be entering the house through windows and doors at times when they are open. It is best to take the outdoor samples as close together in time as possible to the indoor samples that they will be compared with.

InterNACHI inspectors should avoid taking samples if a resident of the house is under a physician’s care for mold exposure, if there is litigation in progress related to mold on the premises, or if the inspector’s health or safety could be compromised in obtaining the sample. Residential home inspectors also should not take samples in a commercial or public building.

Where to Sample and Ideal Conditions

In any areas of a house suspected or confirmed to have mold growth, air samples can be taken to help verify and gather more information. Moisture intrusion, water damage, musty odors, apparent mold growth, or conditions conducive to mold growth are all common reasons to gather an air sample. Samples should be taken near the center of the room, with the collection device positioned 3 to 6 feet off the ground.

Ten minutes is an adequate amount of time for the air pump to run while taking samples, but this can be reduced to around five minutes if there is a concern that air movement from a lot of indoor activity could alter the results. The sampling time can be reduced further if there is an active source of dust, such as from ongoing construction.

Sampling should take place in livable spaces within the house under closed conditions in order to help stabilize the air and allow for reproducibility of the sampling and measurement. While the sample is being collected, windows and exterior doors should be kept shut other than for normal entry and exit from the home. It is best to have air exchangers (other than a furnace) or fans that exchange indoor-outdoor air switched off during sampling.

Weather conditions can be an important factor in gathering accurate data. Severe thunderstorms or unusually high winds can affect the sampling and analysis results. High winds or rapid changes in barometric pressure increase the difference in air pressure between the interior and exterior, which can increase the variability of airborne mold-spore concentration. Large differences in air pressure between the interior and exterior can cause more airborne spores to be sucked inside, skewing the results of the sample.

Difficulties and Practicality of Air Sampling

It is helpful to think of air sampling as just one tool in the tool belt when inspecting a house for mold problems. An air sample alone is not enough to confirm or refute the existence of a problem, and such testing needs to be accompanied by visual inspection and other methods of data collection, such as a surface sample. Indoor airborne spore levels can vary according to several factors, and this can lead to skewed results if care is not taken to set up the sampling correctly. Also, since only spores are collected with an air sample and may actually be damaged during collection, identification of the mold type can be more difficult than with a sample collected with tape or a cultured sample.

Air samples are good for use as a background screen to ensure that there isn’t a large source of mold not yet found somewhere in a home. This is because they can detect long chains of spores that are still intact. These chains normally break apart quickly as they travel through the air, so a sample that reveals intact chains can indicate that there is mold nearby, possibly undiscovered during other tests and visual examination.

In summary, when taken under controlled conditions and properly analyzed, air samples for mold are helpful in comparing relative particle levels between a problem and a control area. They can also be crucial for comparing particle levels and air quality in an area before and after mold remediation.

Choosing a home inspector

By Walker Moskop, wmoskop@express-news.net
Updated 07:29 p.m., Friday, August 12, 2011

Home inspector Jeff Adams stands in the kitchen of a house for sale on Butlers Bridge Road. He says an inspection can take anywhere from two to five hours.
Photo: SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS, SALLY FINNERAN / sfinneran@express-news

Recent Headlines
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The right one can save a home buyer $$$

Choosing a home inspector

Inside a north San Antonio home, inspector Jeff Adams points to a metal pipe inside a closet that is heavily duct taped, bent awkwardly and angled into the top of a gas furnace. “This pipe has completely come apart,” he said.

“They kinda screwed the pooch on this one.”

The two-story brick house is in pretty good shape compared to many places, but Adams still has numerous concerns about it, from the dubiously bandaged piping to deteriorating siding to a gutter placed too close to the home’s foundation.

For many homebuyers, excessive water penetration, electrical damage or a range of other defects can be a deal breaker when looking at a home. But if they don’t hire an experienced home inspector to find those problems before closing, they could be stuck with thousands of dollars worth of needed repairs that surprise them down the road.
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Royal Home Inspectors is the Featured Business This Week.

Royal Home Inspectors is the Featured Business This Week.

Featured Business of the Week

The person behind the business.

By Requestmaster.com

This week we’d like you to meet:

Royal Home Inspectors L.L.C.

Owner: Bruce LaBell

Bruce was born in Detroit, Michigan, and has called Scottsdale Az. home since 1981. Bruce has a background in Sales, Marketing, Training and Management in the Consumer Electronic Industry for over 20 plus years, He was also involved in the Travel and tour industry for a while.

When he started in the Home Inspection Industry in 2005 he completed over 400 inspections in the Greater Metro Phoenix Area, in his first year as a Home Inspector, this enabled him to sit for his ASHI certification. He is now, a member of both the National and the Arizona State Chapters of ASHI. (American Society of Home Inspectors).

So why did Bruce start Royal Home Inspectors L.L.C.

Back in 2004-2005 Bruce hit his head on the “corporate glass ceiling” and was in a rut. Several of his family members were in the Real-Estate profession working as Realtors. They asked him if he wanted to start over, change his profession and become a Realtor. At the time, the Real-Estate business was booming in Arizona, but the huge mounds of paperwork, (Before Computers) scared him off. Bruce then started to look around and found he could be involved in Real-Estate as a Home Inspector.

Today, Bruce is the President of the Arizona ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) chapter 2010-2012. He is also on the Education committee in Arizona and a Member of the National Board of Directors for ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) 2010-2013. He is also a Member of CREIA the (California Real Estate Inspection Association) and a member of the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors.

So what is important to Bruce?

Family and friends are very important to him. He has two small children a girl and a boy who are his life and joy. He tries to be active in the community as much as possible. Bruce is a member of the Maricopa Sheriff’s Posse and he is also a member of the Shrine just to list a few community organizations that he is a member of, so he can give back to the local community.

Bruce’s latest accomplishments are: He is a trainer for the Phoenix Association of Realtors and for the Southeast Valley Regional Association of Reators (SEVRAR) for Continuing Education.

He is a corporate trainer for Coldwell Banker and Realty Executives for continuing education in Home Inspections just to list a few. Bruce also is a National Trainer & Speaker. He also acts as a legal consultant and is now the owner of Royal Home School of Real Estate L.L.C.

Bruce is also working as a mentor and field trainer for the Kaplan Schools, for new Home Inspectors. He is currently a member of the Phoenix Association of REALTORS as well as the Scottsdale Association of Realtors and is an active member of the Arizona Real Estate Educator Association and a member of AZREIA.

Bruce is also a member in the following organizations: The Arizona Small Business Association, AZ Jewish Business Association, and The Jewish Chamber of Commerce of Greater Phoenix.

Bruce has been “spotlighted” in the Phoenix Business Journal, in both the people on the move and the 2.0 sections. He also has been “spotlighted” in the Jewish News of Greater Phoenix as a Person on the Move, and in several issues of the ASHI Reporter, which is a national trade magazine.

Bruce has been on several radio and TV shows over the past few years: Real Estate from A to Z, on KFNN and KXXT several times, has been on TV 3 Midday Show, and on Rosie on the House just to name a few.

He has also continued to further his education and has earned the following certifications in: Certified in Advance Mold Assessments as an Inspector, He is TRI Certified (Tile Roof Institute) and has earned a FEMA Disaster Housing Certification just to list a few.

So what make Bruce want to get up and out of bed every day and go to work?

The pursuit of meeting self-set goals and trying to reach and meet his expectations. He is also working diligently to raise the bar in the Inspection Industry.

Bruce is presently working on setting new professional standards and looking at the new and upcoming challenges and adventures in the Inspection Industry.

Bruce if you haven’t noticed is quite an overachiever.

So what has made Bruce who he is today?

Good family values, having a lot of family and friends always around while growing up in the Midwest and working at a young age in the family businesses, He was involved in several High schools sports, and feels it was helpful for him to find popularity at a very young age. Bruce has always had a passion to succeed in his younger years and he still follows his dreams and works to achieve his goals everyday!

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A Winning Light Bulb With the Potential to Save the Nation Billions

A Winning Light Bulb With the Potential to Save the Nation Billions

This is great news and a great sign that we are continuing to make advances in the energy conservation sector. These bulbs that were developed by Phillips promise to save more money in comparison with the incandescent bulbs. If you know of someone who is interested in saving energy and energy efficient products, please take a few moments to share this article with them. Below is the article from the US Department of Energy Website.
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A Winning Light Bulb With the Potential to Save the Nation Billions
Thomas Edison would be amazed. The conventional light bulb has got some serious competition.
The 60-watt incandescent light bulb -- an estimated 425 million of which are sold each year -- has been technologically stunted for nearly a century. But an electrifying energy-saving alternative, which could arrive in stores as soon as early 2012, has emerged that could save the nation billions of dollars annually.
I'm referring to a revolutionary 10-watt light emitting diode (LED) bulb developed by Philips Lighting North America -- the first winner of the Energy Department's Bright Tomorrow Lighting Prize (L Prize). The L Prize challenged the lighting industry to develop high performance, energy-saving replacements for conventional light bulbs that will save American consumers and businesses money.
“The L Prize challenges the best and brightest minds in the U.S. lighting industry to make the technological leaps forward that can greatly reduce the money we spend to light our homes and businesses each year,” said Energy Secretary Steven Chu. “Not only does the L Prize challenge innovative companies like Philips to make LED technology even more energy efficient, it also spurs the lighting industry to make LEDs affordable for American families.”
The L Prize targeted the 60-watt bulb because it is one of the most commonly used types of light bulbs -- and could use a substantial upgrade. As the first winner of the L Prize, this 10-watt alternative could save the nation about 35 terawatt-hours of electricity or $3.9 billion in one year and avoid 20 million metric tons of carbon emissions if every 60-watt incandescent bulb in the U.S. was replaced with the L Prize winner.
“We looked at the L Prize challenge as an opportunity to innovate and develop an energy efficient alternative to a product that has remained largely unchanged for over a century,” said Zia Eftekhar, CEO of Philips Lighting North America. The Philips LED bulb was successfully completed after 18 months of intensive field, lab and product testing to meet the rigorous requirements of the L Prize.
And the LED bulb passed the test, including having a useful lifetime of more than 25,000 hours (compared to 1,000 to 3,000 of a 60-watt incandescent bulb) and a series of stress tests in extreme conditions such as high and low temperatures, humidity, vibration, high and low voltage, and various electrical waveform distortions.
As the winner, Philips will receive a $10 million cash prize as well as L Prize partner promotions and incentives. To date, 31 utilities and energy efficiency program partners stand ready to promote and develop markets for the winning product.

Home inspection thefts inspire new insurance

Home inspection thefts inspire new insurance

A new type of insurance is created due to several cases of Home Inspection theft. If you are a Real Estate agent, please take a few moments to share this article to several of your clients. Also, let us know your thoughts do you think this is a good idea? Not?
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Home inspection thefts inspire new insurance
IMAGINE losing valuable items from your home during an open house, only to find later you are not insured for the loss.
Sydney buyer’s agent Peter Kelaher said often this was the case for both vendors and tenants.
“Once you’ve willingly invited people into your home, most insurance policies are void, and in the eyes of insurance companies that’s exactly what you’re deemed to have done when you open your home for inspection,” Mr Kelaher said.
This situation led Mr Kelaher to establish a new insurance and security service to cover vendors when they sell their home.
It’s called Open Home Insurance & Security.
One of the first to take up the new service was Channel 9’s TV show The Block 2011.
Mr Kelaher said the renovation-reality program was using the service for the show’s open for inspection days; the first of which was last Sunday when 30 security staff were on site.
“In essence, Open Home Insurance & Security is designed specifically to protect vendors, landlords and tenants during open home inspections by closing a loophole in the vast majority of standard home and contents insurance policies,” he said.
It offers two services - an insurance policy that provides cover for accidental and malicious damage, inclusive of theft, for up to $5000 when selling or leasing your property, and licensed on-site security personnel at open inspections who complete photo identification checks on every visitor entering a home.
Mr Kelaher said customers received a number of theft deterrent products, such as signs on internet advertisements advising people they may be asked for photo ID, or be under video surveillance at an open inspection plus an open home security sign displayed at the front of the property during an open inspection, advising people security personnel were on site.

HUD AND NEIGHBORWORKS AMERICA ANNOUNCE DEADLINE EXTENSION FOR EMERGENCY HOMEOWNERS' LOAN PROGRAM

HUD AND NEIGHBORWORKS AMERICA ANNOUNCE DEADLINE EXTENSION FOR EMERGENCY HOMEOWNERS' LOAN PROGRAM

The US Department of Housing and Urban Development extended their deadline for the emergency homeowner's loan program last Friday July 22, 2011. The deadline is Wednesday July 27, 2011. If you are at risk of foreclosure you may want to look at this program to see if you qualify. Please share this article with someone you know who may be in need of help. Below is the information from the HUD website:

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HUD AND NEIGHBORWORKS AMERICA ANNOUNCE DEADLINE EXTENSION FOR EMERGENCY HOMEOWNERS' LOAN PROGRAM

Washington, D.C. - Today the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and NeighborWorks® America announced that the deadline for the Emergency Homeowners' Loan Program has been extended to Wednesday, July 27, 2011, in order to give homeowners at risk of foreclosure in the participating 27 states and Puerto Rico more time to apply for the program.

The Emergency Homeowners' Loan Program (EHLP) will assist homeowners who have experienced a reduction in income and are at risk of foreclosure due to involuntary unemployment or underemployment, due to economic conditions or a medical condition. Eligible homeowners can qualify for an interest free loan, which pays a portion of their monthly mortgage for up to two years, or up to $50,000, whichever comes first.

Homeowners are encouraged to visit www.FindEHLP.org to find contact information for participating agencies, the Pre-Applicant Screening Worksheet and more information on the EHLP assistance and its eligibility requirements. Homeowners may also call the toll free hotline -- 855-FIND-EHLP (346-3345) - for this information as well.

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

About NeighborWorks® America NeighborWorks America creates opportunities for people to improve their lives and strengthen their communities by providing access to homeownership and to safe and affordable rental housing. Since 1991, we have assisted nearly 1.2 million low- to moderate-income families with their housing needs. Much of our success is achieved through our support of the NeighborWorks network - more than 235 community development organizations working in more than 4,400 urban, suburban and rural communities in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. In the last five years, NeighborWorks organizations have generated more than $15 billion in reinvestment in these communities. NeighborWorks America is the nation's leading trainer of community development and affordable housing professionals.
Article Source: http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/press/press_releases_media_advisories/2011/HUDNo.11-155

Beware Of Scam Artists

Beware Of Scam Artists

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) just recently published information to help people be on the lookout for scam artists. These scam artists can take advantage of individuals when they are the most vulnerable, during disasters. Please ensure that you share this information with your family, friends and loved ones. Take a few moments to forward this information to help prevent those you know from being taken advantage of.

Green Refinance Plus Program

Green Refinance Plus Program

The Federal Housing Authority and Fannie Mae announced a new program to help pay for energy efficient upgrades in affordable apartment buildings. This is a great program to help the governments mission on improving both living conditions and reducing energy costs and consumption. The program includes funding for energy and water saving upgrades. Please take a few moments to share this program with a friend or a family member. The information below is from the HUD.gov website.

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FHA AND FANNIE MAE ANNOUNCE GREEN REFINANCE PLUS TO PAY FOR ENERGY-EFFICIENT UPGRADES IN AFFORDABLE APARTMENT BUILDINGS

Energy Improvement Finance Program for Older Affordable Housing Developments

WASHINGTON – U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan today announced Green Refinance Plus, a program between HUD’s Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and Fannie Mae to allow owners of existing affordable rental housing properties to refinance into new mortgages that include funding for energy- and water-saving upgrades, along with other needed property renovations.

Under the program, FHA and Fannie Mae will share the risk on loans to refinance existing rent-restricted projects while permitting owners to borrow additional funds to make energy-saving improvements to their properties.

Donovan and Fannie Mae’s Executive Vice President for Multifamily Business Ken Bacon unveiled the program at a senior housing development in the San Francisco Bay Area where HUD is investing in energy-saving green retrofits.

“All across the country, owners of affordable housing properties are looking for a way to refinance their mortgages and to make energy improvements and other needed renovations at the same time,” said Donovan. “This program kills two birds with one stone – it preserves our affordable rental stock and it helps finance upgrades that will save energy and money over the long haul. We must make the smart investments in a more energy independent economy. These investments will strengthen our economy, create the new industries and new jobs of the future and reduce our dependence on an ever fluctuating oil market. ”

Bacon added, “Green Refinance Plus supports Fannie Mae’s ongoing commitment to creating a more sustainable rental housing market that is affordable to low- and moderate-income families. This program will provide more renters with renovated apartments in which to live, allow building owners to better manage their energy costs, and help communities by reducing the environmental footprint of our rental properties. Leveraging existing technology and expertise to bring proven energy and cost savings to rental housing is a win for everyone.”

California Congressman Pete Stark said, “Today's event highlights an exciting new refinancing opportunity for owners of affordable housing to make energy- and water-saving upgrades. It’s appropriate that the Green Refinance Plus program is being unveiled by Secretary Donovan at the Eden Issei Terrace in Hayward, in the heart of a community poised to help propel our country’s clean, green energy economy.”

Approximately every 10-to-15 years, owners of existing multifamily affordable properties typically refinance their mortgages. In older apartment buildings, however, owners are hard-pressed to find additional financing to maintain or improve the physical condition of their properties, including making energy-efficient upgrades. Beginning next month, Fannie Mae and its participating lenders will begin accepting applications to refinance owners’ debt as well as improve the energy efficiency of their properties.

Green Refinance Plus is intended to refinance the expiring mortgages of Low Income Housing Tax Credit and other affordable projects and to lower annual operating costs by reducing energy consumption. Fannie Mae and HUD anticipate approximately $100 million in initial refinance volume with an average loan amount of $3.5 to $5 million. FHA will insure up to an additional four-to-five percent of the loan amount, or an average of approximately $150,000 to $250,000 per loan, to provide additional loan funds to pay for i) property improvements that save energy and water costs for owners and tenants, such as energy efficient windows and ENERGY STAR appliances, as well as ii) other needed property renovations.

Property owners will be able to select the energy- efficiency upgrades that make the most economic sense for their properties. Borrowers will obtain a "Green Physical Needs Assessment" completed by a qualified provider. This assessment identifies property improvements that both reduce energy and operating costs and will help borrowers make rehabilitation choices that will give them the greatest energy savings for their investment.

Green Refinance Plusis an enhancement of the Fannie Mae/FHA Risk-Share program, begun in the 1990s. It will provide funding for the refinance, preservation and energy-efficient retrofits of older affordable multifamily housing properties, including those that are currently in Fannie Mae’s or FHA’s portfolios. This program allows for lower debt service coverage and higher loan-to-value ratios, to generate extra loan proceeds for property rehab and energy-efficient retrofits.

Read more about FHA/Fannie Mae’s Green Refinance Plus Program.

Miami, FL - Requestmaster, LLC form partnership with the Environmental Solutions Association

Miami, FL - Requestmaster, LLC form partnership with the Environmental Solutions Association

Press Release

Miami, FL - Requestmaster, LLC form partnership with the Environmental Solutions Association

Requestmaster and the Environmental Solutions Association (ESA) are pleased to announce a new partnership that is extremely beneficial to both ESA and Requestmaster members.

Requestmaster is an online resource connecting consumers to service professionals. Requestmaster provides a free membership to ESA members with built in tools designed to help them grow their relationships with other businesses such as Real Estate Agents. Their free membership also provides them with a unique and collaborative email marketing system designed to help them stay in touch and foster networking with other businesses in their local communities.

Requestmaster’s goal is to align the services available via Requestmaster.com with industry leaders and associations that promote consumer confidence, standards and integrity. Environmental Solutions Association is the nation’s premiere Indoor Air Quality training organization, and we are proud to have ESA as our partner.

For more information about Requestmaster, visit our website at http://www.requestmaster.com or for press inquiries please call 305-470-2776.

Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency

Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency

Just recently we found a great website that provides information on state rebate programs that you might want to be aware of. If you know of someone who is looking to make an investment in their home by installing either energy efficient appliances, solar water heaters, solar panels. This is a great resource to find out what kinds of rebate programs are available and information on who to contact. You may want to share this article with your family or friends who might want to know what programs are out there.

Here are some examples of what I found:

Fort Lauderdale Florida: Fort Lauderdale Smart Watts Rebate Program

Sunset Valley Texas: Sunset Valley - PV Rebate Program

New York: Refundable Clean Heating Fuel Tax Credit (Personal)

Here is some general information about the website:

Established in 1995, the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) is an ongoing project of the North Carolina Solar Center and the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC). It is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), primarily through the Office of Planning, Budget and Analysis (PBA). The site is administered by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), which is operated for DOE by the Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC.

Information about the program:

Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is providing a total of $300 million to U.S. states, U.S. territories and the District of Columbia to establish rebate programs for new energy-efficient appliances that replace existing appliances in homes. Each state and territory has designed its own program. Rebates will be available until the state or territory program's funding is exhausted.

To find rebates in your area please visit: Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency