Los Angeles Real Estate Blog

How Did I Ever Live Without DocuSign - Electronic Signatures?

2010-10-11T13:30:00.000-07:00

Seriously, how did I just recently discover this priceless tool. You don't have to be in real estate or even be a client to realize the importance of this product. DocuSign is recognized by financial institutions, government agencies, and more.

It not only saves time and money (since it cuts down on driving around, overnighting important documents, etc.), it's as GREEN as it gets. No paper! Everyone signs the document electronically via email and one digital PDF is saved. You can print it or simply keep it on your computer and storage device.

I've said it once... and I'll say it again... how-How-HOW did I ever live without this???

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

Should I Buy? Can I Buy?

2010-07-12T10:23:00.000-07:00

Do you want to buy a house or condo? Maybe a multi-unit? The answer is simple. It's totally up to you. Yes or no. Once you make that decision, the question is - Can you afford it? If yes, and if it's a fair price... then YES you should buy. Don't wonder what everyone else is doing. When you follow everyone into the real estate market, you end up behind them.

The worst is over. Property values will not drop much lower than where they are at today. So the longer you wait, the more likely you are going to buy during the upswing - which means you will be buying at a higher price than those who are buying now.

Bottom line: You can either afford it and be comfortable buying today. If not, don't buy. Call Gerry Moylan, Realtor, today to evaluate your real options 323-528-9989.

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

CA Homebuyer Tax Credit Running Out...

2010-06-17T13:45:00.001-07:00

The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) announced today that it has received applications claiming 80 percent of the State’s First-Time Buyer Credit.

“The time to utilize this credit is definitely running out,” said State Controller and FTB Chair John Chiang. “Any taxpayers interested in this program should work with their mortgage professional to apply as soon as possible.”

As of June 15, 2010, FTB has estimated receiving more than 15,000 applications claiming more than $78 million. Because many of these applications are duplicates or invalid, FTB plans to accept at least 28,000 applications to ensure all $100 million is credited.

FTB will announce the cut-off date on its website giving at least 24 hours notice for applicants to fax their documentation. The credit will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis using the date and time stamp on the fax. But, submission before the cutoff does not guarantee a credit; FTB will stop allocating credits once the $100 million is exhausted.

The First-Time Buyer Credit is expected to assist roughly 17,500 qualified buyers who purchase a qualified principal residence. A first-time buyer is someone who did not own a principal residence for the preceding three years. The home must be purchased (close escrow) on or after May 1, 2010. The buyer must reside in the home for at least two years immediately following the purchase date. This credit is equal to the lesser of five percent of the purchase price or $10,000.

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

Something BP Doesn't Want You To See

2010-06-03T17:16:00.001-07:00

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

This I Like... That Not So Much

2010-05-27T20:50:00.000-07:00

Feeling I need to rant a little here. Okay, so here's what I like right now... The band Phoenix. Actually, I've liked them for a little while now, but they continue to grow on and inside me. They deserve every good thing that comes their way. I noticed they are getting a lot of airplay with "Lisztomania", which is one of my favourites from their latest album "Wolfgang Amadeus".

On the other hand, I just don't get Lady Gaga. Fine, she's great at marketing and being different. So is every other freak I've ever known. Her music is not melodic, and I'm just irritated by her.

On TV, LOVED-loved-loved "LOST". And like a good book it had an ending so onto the next. I will miss it like I still miss "Six Feet Under" and "The Sopranos". But the good thing is we can revisit whenever we feel like it. Still love my reality shows, including "The Deadliest Catch" (can't get enough of it and was very sad at the passing of Captain Phil) and all of "The Real Housewives..."

Very hard to think of the last good movie I saw. "The Road" was amazing and that was months ago. You should rent that movie, if you haven't seen it. Just a work of art! Still LOVE Annette Bening - can't wait until she comes out in something new - that will be a good movie.

Won't catch me dead going to see "Sex In The City". Hi, let's do a TV series, then when it gets tired just rehash the same plot and story lines as we age ungracefully and turn them into movies... one after the other...Yeah, we get it. You like shoes. It's so ... not interesting.

I'm annoyed at gay people wanting to be like straight people. You're not. You are more special - keep it that way. There are legal ways to protect your rights, provide for your family, etc. Don't rely on those you want to be like, because more than half of them are racist, hateful bastards.

Still love technology a lot. It's moving at an incredible pace lately - I feel we are truly witnessing the most intense technology movement in the history of the world. Seems like there's something new every week. Where would we be without Twitter, Facebook, Apps?

Beagles rule.

Greg Norman wine is very good - buy it at your local market. There's a California variety and an Australian. Yes, Greg Norman of golfing fame. Yum!

Meg Whitman needs a new hairdo. For someone who is apparently not very pro-gay she's looking kinda LEZBO.

Love creative people. Have no time for robots who listen to, read, watch, and eat whatever they think is "in", rather than venturing out and discovering things for themselves. Life is too short. Get out there and discover it.

Bye...

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

So You Want To Buy A Foreclosure?

2010-05-06T14:42:00.001-07:00

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

How to buy a foreclosure
Many buyers, especially first-timers, hope to purchase a foreclosed property at a bargain price. While purchasing a foreclosed home can be a wise choice for some buyers, it is important that buyers understand the differences in buying at different stages of foreclosure and be prepared to take on the challenges typically associated with each.

MAKING SENSE OF THE STORY FOR CONSUMERS

There are three basic stages of foreclosure in California: Pre-foreclosure, trustee’s sale, and repossession, often called an REO or real estate owned by the bank.
Pre-foreclosure homes are in the foreclosure process, but have not yet been auctioned. Owners of pre-foreclosed homes often try to sell the properties because they are “underwater,” meaning they owe more on the mortgage than the home currently is worth. Many homeowners attempt to sell via short sale, where the lender must agree to accept less than the amount owed on the mortgage. Buying at this stage of foreclosure often is a complicated and slow process. However, buyers of pre-foreclosed properties often are given the opportunity to inspect the home prior to purchasing, whereas this is not always the case when buying at other stages of foreclosures.
The second basic stage of foreclosure is the public auction at a trustee’s or foreclosure sale. Homes in this stage often are well priced, but also come with challenges to buy. These homes may not be available for inspection and buyers may later discover the property needs numerous repairs. As a result, many of the homes at auction are purchased by investors and contractors who have experience working with homes needing numerous repairs, or taken back as REO by the foreclosing lenders.
If a home does not sell to a third party at the trustee’s auction, the bank takes the property--the final stage of the foreclosure process. Although homes in this stage typically do not offer buyers the best prices, buyers generally can perform a thorough inspection of the property prior to closing.

Homes Sales Are Up!

2010-04-26T19:03:00.000-07:00

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

According to the California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.) March median price increased 20.8 percent; home sales increased 2.5 percent

Multimedia:
. Click here to view Unsold Inventory by price point.
· Click here to view a data table comparing current prices with trough prices in areas throughout the
   state.

Quick Facts:
. Existing, single-family home sales increased 2.5 percent in March to a seasonally adjusted rate of
516,590 units on an annualized basis compared with March 2009.

. The statewide median price of an existing single-family home increased 20.8 percent in March to
   $301,790, compared with March 2009.

. C.A.R.’s Unsold Inventory Index fell to 5 months in March, compared with 5.6 months in March 2009.

LOS ANGELES (April 22) Home sales increased 2.5 percent in March in California compared with the same period a year ago, while the median price of an existing home rose 20.8 percent, the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (C.A.R.) reported today.

“The end of the federal tax credit on April 30 will remove some urgency from the market, but is not likely to derail current market trends as favorable prices and low mortgage rates continue to attract buyers and investors,” said C.A.R. President Steve Goddard. “The March year-to-year median price gain of 20.8 percent was the largest in more than five years. With the number of homes for sale in the state expected to remain lean, gains in the statewide median price may well outpace the nation going forward.”

Closed escrow sales of existing, single-family detached homes in California totaled 516,590 in March at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate, according to information collected by C.A.R. from more than 90 local REALTOR® associations statewide. Statewide home resale activity increased 2.5 percent from the revised 504,200 sales pace recorded in March 2009. Sales in March 2010 decreased 2.5 percent compared with the previous month.

The statewide sales figure represents what the total number of homes sold during 2010 would be if sales maintained the March pace throughout the year. It is adjusted to account for seasonal factors that typically influence home sales.

The median price of an existing, single-family detached home in California during March 2010 was $301,790, a 20.8 percent increase from the revised $249,790 median for March 2009, C.A.R. reported. The March 2010 median price increased 7.8 percent compared with February’s $279,840 median price.

“While the federal tax credit has helped drive sales, near record-high affordability resulting from current prices and low mortgage rates also has impacted the market,” said C.A.R. Vice President and Chief Economist Leslie Appleton-Young. “Four years ago, the median price to household income ratio was at a record high of 10 to one. It’s now near a historic low of four to one.”

Highlights of C.A.R.’s resale housing figures for March 2010:

. C.A.R.’s Unsold Inventory Index for existing, single-family detached homes in March 2010 was 5
months, compared with 5.6 months (revised) for the same period a year ago. The index indicates
the number of months needed to deplete the supply of homes on the market at the current sales
  rate.

· Thirty-year fixed-mortgage interest rates averaged 4.97 percent during March 2010, compared with
5 percent in March 2009, according to Freddie Mac. Adjustable-mortgage interest rates averaged
4.20 percent in March 2010, compared with 4.86 percent in March 2009.

. The median number of days it took to sell a single-family home was 39.2 days in March 2010,
compared with 48.5 days (revised) for the same period a year ago.

Regional MLS sales and price information are contained in the tables that accompany this press release. Regional sales data are not adjusted to account for seasonal factors that can influence home sales. The MLS median price and sales data for detached homes are generated from a survey of more than 90 associations of REALTORS® throughout the state. MLS median price and sales data for condominiums are based on a survey of more than 60 associations. The median price for both detached homes and condominiums represents closed escrow sales.

In a separate report covering more localized statistics generated by C.A.R. and DataQuick Information Systems, 230 of the 357 cities and communities reporting showed an increase in their respective median home prices from a year ago. DataQuick statistics are based on county records data rather than MLS information. DataQuick Information Systems is a subsidiary of Vancouver-based MacDonald Dettwiler and Associates. (The lists are generated for incorporated cities with a minimum of 30 recorded sales in the month.)

Note: Large changes in local median home prices typically indicate both local home price appreciation, and often, large shifts in the composition of housing market activity. Some of the variations in median home prices for March may be exaggerated due to compositional changes in housing demand. The DataQuick tables listing median home prices in California cities and counties are accessible through C.A.R. Online at http://www.car.org/marketdata/historicalprices/2010medianprices/mar2010medianprices/.

. Statewide, the 10 cities with the highest median home prices in California during March 2010 were:
Los Altos, $1,476,500; Manhattan Beach, $1,340,000; Palo Alto, $1,264,000; Calabasas,
$1,260,000; Newport Beach, $1,102,250; Palos Verdes Estates, $1,017,000; Mill Valley, $910,000;
Rancho Palos Verdes, $878,500; Los Gatos, $869,000; and Cupertino, $865,000.

. Statewide, the cities with the greatest median home price increases in March 2010 compared with
the same period a year ago were: Pittsburg, 42.3 percent; Arcadia, 40.2 percent; National City, 37.7
percent; Auburn, 34.1 percent; Lodi, 33.3 percent; Richmond, 30.4 percent; Placentia, 29.9 percent;
Newport Beach, 29.7 percent; Novato, 28.8 percent; and Petaluma, 27.7 percent.

Leading the way...^® in California real estate for more than 100 years, the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^® ( www.car.org) is one of the largest state trade organizations in the United States, with nearly 150,000 members dedicated to the advancement of professionalism in real estate. C.A.R. is headquartered in Los Angeles.

Valley Glen Solar-Powered House - Totally Remodeled

2010-04-20T10:14:00.000-07:00

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

This is an AMAZING opportunity to own a totally renovated and remodeled home that has one HUGE BONUS... It's SOLAR-POWERED! It has DUAL-PANED WINDOWS, TANKLESS WATER HEATER and other ECO-FRIENDLY extras!

The electric meter actually runs backwards. The seller installed a $70,000 solar system in 2007. The energy created is sent back onto the power grid. The home then runs off the regular grid. The NET cost to a typical family living here?

ZERO!!! You will basically pay nothing for electricity!!! How's that for HUGE SAVINGS???

DESCRIPTION:

Totally remodeled from top to bottom, Solar-Powered eco-friendly home featuring high tech keypad automation, top-of-the-line appliances, fixtures, and high end finishes throughout. 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms PLUS a den. The main bathroom features Japanese sunken spa tub & modern shower unit with body sprays. Bamboo floors, dual-pain energy efficient windows, tankless H20 heater, central heat/ac. Chefs kitchen w/ granite countertops & stainless steel appliances. Sleek, sophisticated, smart, and eco-friendly. Two car garage PLUS freestanding modular office fully wired for phone & satellite. Rear composite weather-resistent deck features new Jacuzzi brand ozone spa for chemical-free hot tub relaxation. You will be talking about this one long after it is sold!

Offered at $499,000. Contact Gerry Moylan, Realtor of Keller Williams Realty at 323-528-9989. Or Visit his website at http://www.gmoylan.com

California's Homebuyer Tax Credit Monies May Go Fast

2010-04-15T16:09:00.001-07:00

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

The $100 million allocated for California's first-time homebuyer tax credits may be depleted in about 10 to 20 days or sooner, according to C.A.R.'s Economics team. California's Franchise Tax Board (FTB) plans to begin accepting applications on May 1, 2010 for tax credits up to $10,000 for first-time homebuyers and for homes that have never been previously occupied. However, the total tax credit allocation for all taxpayers is $100 million for first-time homebuyers and $100 million for new homes, both on a first-come, first-served basis.
C.A.R.'s forecast of 10 to 20 days to deplete the $100 million allocation for first-time home buyers is based on estimated May sales figures and other parameters. It does not take into account the possibility that buyers scheduled to close escrow in April may delay closing until May to take advantage of the tax credit. If a shift in closings from April to May occurs, the first-time homebuyer tax credits may be depleted even more quickly than indicated above.
Applications for the California tax credit must be faxed to the FTB after escrow closes. The FTB will update its website when the 2010 application form and other information become availablee.
REALTORS® are reminded not to give their clients any tax or legal advice, such as the availability of funds under the California tax credit program. Agents should encourage their clients to seek specific advice from an accountant, attorney, or other professional as they deem appropriate.

Free Credit Report My Ass

2010-04-15T13:24:00.000-07:00

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

Companies that offered free credit reports appear to be skirting a new federal disclosure requirement designed to crack down on misleading advertising.

Under the requirement, companies that advertise free credit reports in connection with the sale of credit monitoring or other products must prominently disclose that consumers can get a truly free credit report from the government-authorized Web site annual creditreport.com.

A limited disclosure requirement for all media started in February. A final, more explicit disclosure requirement took effect Friday for print, direct mail, telemarketing and Web advertising. The final rule for TV and radio ads applies Sept. 1.

Rather than make the new disclosure, many companies changed their marketing. Instead of offering free credit reports, some are charging a small fee or promoting free credit scores, which are not covered by the new rule.

Freecreditreport.com, known for its pirates, minstrels and catchy jingles, is doing both. Its Web site now says, "Check your report for $1 and get your score free! Plus, we'll donate your dollar to charity."

The company is owned by Experian, one of three credit reporting agencies required by law to offer consumers a free credit report, with no strings attached, once a year at Annualcreditreport.com.

The company "is cleverly taking advantage of gaping loopholes in the law," says John Ulzheimer, president of consumer education at Credit.com.

If it kept the $1, it might be criticized because it has "free" in its name. By donating the dollar to charity, it blunts criticism and looks generous, he says.

The company's Web ad implies that the government put a stop to its free reports. It says, "Due to federally imposed restrictions it is no longer feasible for us to provide you with a free Experian Credit Report."

Frank Dorman, a spokesman for the Federal Trade Commission, says, "We know of no federal restriction that would prevent a company from offering free credit reports; the rule simply requires those companies that do offer free reports to include prominent disclosures."

Ulzheimer says Experian has changed its signage in sports venues from Freecreditreport.com to Freecreditscore.com.

Experian says it is no longer advertising Freecreditreport.com on television but "will utilize different TV campaigns to advertise our suite of other products including www.freecre ditscore.com and www.protectmyid.com." It had no other comment on its advertising.

Other companies that once advertised free credit reports and scores - including Truecredit.com, owned by credit reporting agency TransUnion - are now promoting free scores only.

The new rules were part of last year's sweeping credit card act. The FTC says it is monitoring compliance with the new rules but cannot comment on any company's advertising.

Starting in February, companies subject to the law had to state, in all advertising, that "Free credit reports are available under federal law at: Annualcreditreport .com."

By last Friday, more explicit disclosures applied to print and Web ads.

Web advertising must say: "THIS NOTICE IS REQUIRED BY LAW. Read more at FTC.GOV. You have the right to a free credit report from Annualcreditreport.com or (877) 322-8228, the ONLY authorized source under federal law." The disclosure must include hyperlinks to the two sites.

Starting Sept. 1, TV and radio ads must say, "This is not the free credit report provided for by federal law" in the audio and visual portion.

The law also imposes new restrictions on an nualcreditreport.com, the government-authorized site operated by the three credit reporting agencies.

The first page of this site can no longer have links to the agencies' Web sites. In the past, they could.

"When people clicked on those, they were taken to a site without realizing they were no longer on annualcreditreport .com," says FTC attorney Tiffany George.

Also, this site can no longer advertise any products until after the consumer has received a free credit report.

California Won't Tax Forgiven Home Debt

2010-04-15T13:15:00.001-07:00

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

California won’t tax forgiven home debt
Governor Schwarzenegger on Monday signed SB 401 (Wolk) into law providing distressed homeowners with state tax exemption on debt forgiven in a short sale, foreclosure, or loan modification. KEEP THIS IN MIND
• SB 401 generally aligns California's treatment of taxes on forgiven mortgage debt with that of federal law. For debt forgiven on a loan secured by a "qualified principal residence," borrowers now will be exempt from both federal and state income tax consequences. Previously, California homeowners generally were exempt from owing federal taxes on the forgiven mortgage debt, but still were required to pay California taxes on the so-called "phantom income."
• Qualified principal residence indebtedness is defined as debt incurred in acquiring, constructing, or substantially improving a principal residence, including both first and second mortgages. It also includes refinance loans to the extent the funds were used to payoff a previous loan that would have qualified under these guidelines.
• The tax relief applies to debts discharged from 2009 through 2012. Californians who already have filed their 2009 tax returns may claim the exemption by filing a Form 540X amendment.
• Taxpayers who do not qualify for the above exemptions (e.g., second home or rental property) still may be exempt from paying taxes on forgiven mortgage debt under other provisions. Most notably, bankrupt taxpayers are exempt from debt relief income tax. Also, taxpayers who are insolvent are exempt from debt relief income tax to the extent their current liabilities exceed current assets.
To read the full story, please click here:
http://www.sacbee.com/2010/04/13/2674065/california-wont-tax-forgiven-home.html#mi_rss=State%20Politics
April

California Enacts Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief

2010-04-13T10:21:00.001-07:00

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

California Enacts Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief

Sacramento –A new state law allows taxpayers to immediately exclude from their income the amount of mortgage debt on their home loan that has been forgiven by their lender. The law largely brings California statutes into conformity with current federal law. Previously, California conformed to federal debt relief only for 2007 and 2008, according to the Franchise Tax Board (FTB).

“California has been particularly hard hit by the housing crisis,” said State Controller and FTB Chair John Chiang. “This is a critical tax change that will help people in our state who already are suffering the loss of their homes.”

The new law, SB 401 (Wolk), allows most taxpayers to exclude canceled mortgage debt income of up to $500,000 on their principal residence. The limit is $250,000 for married/registered domestic partner (RDP) individuals filing separately. It applies to debt forgiveness in 2009 through 2012 resulting from a foreclosure, “short sale,” or loan modification of a taxpayer’s qualified personal residence.

Prior to the law’s passage, these amounts were taxable to California. If you owe a debt to someone else and they cancel or forgive that debt, the canceled amount often is taxable. These amounts are generally reported on a 1099-C and are provided to both the taxpayer and the government. Debt forgiveness on other types of debt, such as a second home or business property, does not qualify for exclusion under the new law.

The law largely brings California into conformity with the federal Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act for discharges that occurred in tax years 2007 through 2012. However, California’s limits of qualifying principal residence indebtedness differ from federal limits.

Qualifying taxpayers who have already filed their 2009 tax returns should file Form 540X, Amended Individual Income Tax Return, to subtract the amount of debt relief from income. To expedite processing, write “Mortgage Debt Relief” in red across the top of the amended tax return. Taxpayers must attach a copy of their federal return, including Form 982, Reduction of Tax Attributes Due to Discharge of Indebtedness (and Section 1082 Basis Adjustment), with their state tax return.

Like federal law, the new state law allows individuals and businesses to exempt energy grants that are provided in lieu of federal energy credits from their gross income and alternative minimum taxable income. It also conforms California law to many other federal provisions.

According to FTB estimates, approximately 100,000 people may benefit from mortgage debt relief for tax years 2009-2012. For more information, taxpayers are urged to visit FTB’s website at www.ftb.ca.gov.

No Tax For Those in California Who Lost Their Homes in 2009 & 2010

2010-04-09T10:46:00.001-07:00

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

VERY IMPORTANT REAL ESTATE NEWS - Yesterday the California Legislature passed a measure providing tax relief on mortgage debt forgiven in a foreclosure or short sale. This means anyone who lost their home to short sale or foreclosure will not have to pay tax on the forgiven amount! Stay tuned for more details!

For Rent: Studio/1BA Apartment in Los Angeles, CA, $1,000/month

2010-04-08T20:22:00.000-07:00

For Rent: Studio/1BA Apartment in Los Angeles, CA, $1,000/month

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

For Sale: 3BR/2BA Single Family House in Los Angeles, CA, $799,000

2010-04-08T20:21:00.000-07:00

For Sale: 3BR/2BA Single Family House in Los Angeles, CA, $799,000

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

FHA To Accept Third Party Documents

2010-04-08T15:08:00.000-07:00

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

FHA announces today that it will begin to accept third party documents originated and signed outside of the lender's control, such as real estate contracts. More information available at http://bit.ly/9HEpOb. NAR President Vicki Cox Golder is quoted in the article, saying, "We applaud FHA's refreshing attitude toward ...

Americans Still Prefer Owning a Home

2010-04-07T13:06:00.000-07:00

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

A new national survey gauging attitudes toward housing finds that two-thirds of Americans (65 percent) still prefer owning a home, despite the challenging economic environment and the housing downturn. The Fannie Mae National Housing Survey, conducted between December 2009 and January 2010, polled homeowners and renters to assess their confidence in homeownership as an investment, the current state of their household finances, views on the U.S. housing finance system, and overall confidence in the economy.
The survey revealed that homeowners and renters alike are taking a more cautious approach to homeownership. Nearly a quarter of renters polled (23 percent) said they will buy a home later than once planned. In addition, Americans with traditional, fixed-rate mortgages with predictable payments are significantly more satisfied than those with other types of mortgages. Respondents cited non-financial reasons such as safety (43 percent) and quality of local schools (33 percent) as driving factors in wanting to own a home, ahead of financial considerations.
A majority of consumers (60 percent) believe that buying a home today is harder than it was for their parents, and nearly seven in 10 (68 percent) think it will be even more difficult for their children. Most respondents (88 percent) also believe that walking away from an underwater mortgage is not acceptable, but those who know someone who has defaulted are more than twice as likely to have seriously considered stopping payments on their mortgage.

Sales contracts for previously owned homes rise 8.2% in February - latimes.com

2010-04-06T10:00:00.003-07:00

Sales contracts for previously owned homes rise 8.2% in February - latimes.com

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Sales contracts for previously owned homes rise 8.2% in February - latimes.com

2010-04-06T10:00:00.001-07:00

Sales contracts for previously owned homes rise 8.2% in February - latimes.com

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California expected to cancel tax on forgiven mortgage debts - Sacramento Business, Housing Market News | Sacramento Bee

2010-04-06T09:55:00.003-07:00

California expected to cancel tax on forgiven mortgage debts - Sacramento Business, Housing Market News | Sacramento Bee

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California expected to cancel tax on forgiven mortgage debts - Sacramento Business, Housing Market News | Sacramento Bee

2010-04-06T09:55:00.001-07:00

California expected to cancel tax on forgiven mortgage debts - Sacramento Business, Housing Market News | Sacramento Bee

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Hey, Tiger, Enough Already

2010-04-05T15:23:00.000-07:00

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

Note to Tiger Woods: No one really cares. We've heard enough of how treatment for your "problem" has been great. And how appreciative of your fans you are. (But how you won't discuss the Ambien thing or any legal matters). But for real. Dude. Shut up already. Go play golf and make money. Just... shut up!

New Listing - 316 N. Crescent Heights Blvd., Los Angeles - OPEN TODAY 2-5 p.m.

2010-04-04T10:32:00.000-07:00

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

Talk about location! First time on the market in over 20 years. 2 large bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (one en suite) PLUS a bonus den/office. Spacious Living room w/ French doors leading to private and enclosed back yard. Huge kitchen & separate laundry room. One of the hottest neighborhoods in LA – blocks to Beverly Center, Grove, West Hollywood. REGULAR SALE - not a short sale or bank-owned foreclosure, but priced like one! Needs updating. Endless possibilities. Large 6550 SF lot! Check it out at http://www.postlets.com/res/3596067

Acupuncturist & Chinese Medicine Herbalist Makes Housecalls

2010-04-03T12:56:00.000-07:00

Brought to you by Los Angeles Realtor Gerry Moylan

Here's a different kind of "house" post. Acupuncturist & Chinese Medicine Herbalist who also does cupping and more AND HE MAKES HOUSECALLS! Very, very, very reasonable - like $59 for pretty much everything in one visit. Great for stress relief, nasal congestion, allergies, digestive issues, neck & back pain. His name is Phillip Nguyen Cooley, L.Ac. & phone contact is 323-459-1200.

Buyers Don't Pay Real Estate Agent's Commission - The Seller Does!

2010-04-01T15:22:00.000-07:00

It still surprises me when a new buyer asks me, "By the way, what is the fee we have to pay you to represent us?" They are usually very pleasantly surprised when I tell them, "Nothing. The seller pays my commission."

My point is there is no reason for buyers out there to be going it alone. If you are shopping for a house on your own, thinking maybe you'll get a better deal if you go with the listing agent of a particular property... think again. That agent is working and looking out for the best interests of the person who hired him/her - the seller! You won't save any money going with them, but you could lose out on serious negotiation power, since there's quite a conflict using the seller's agent to negotiate your deal. Think about it.

And the reality is that most buyers already working with a Realtor like me are already pre-approved for a loan and ready to get into escrow at a moment's notice. Going out unprepared and unrepresented puts you at a huge disadvantage. Especially in this delicate market. Most agents these days won't even take you seriously - they want a sure bet for their client.

So if it doesn't cost you anything, but can gain you huge bargaining power and have you prepared to get into escrow at a moment's notice... why wouldn't you be working with a Realor when house hunting?

Call Gerry Moylan of Keller Williams Realty in Los Angeles to get started on the search for your dream home. Visit Gerry's Website