Accelerated Real Estate Solutions to Auction Off 190 Acres in North Texas

On Saturday, September 26, 2009 of this Texas Real Estate Land Auction event, this 190 +/-acre tract of Wise and Denton County Texas (Slidell/Denton, Texas) real estate will be auctioned LIVE ONSITE at 1:00 p.m. CT.

These parcels of Texas real estate will be auctioned off at TR 2 County Line Road, Slidell, Texas. This is an excellent opportunity to purchase some of the prettiest, most private land located close to Dallas/Ft Worth in North Texas! There is a variety of land uses and these real estate land auction events will give Buyers a wonderful real estate investment opportunity.

This Texas real estate has highly desirable land with excellent home sites in North Texas and restrictive covenants will protect your investment. This North Texas land is perfect for rural home sites and mini farms. It has pastureland for horses and cattle and cultivatable land for row crops. This is a High bidder's choice Auction and the property is being offered divided and will be sold in 10-40 acre tracts.

Event news and terms for these "Texas real estate land auctions" are posted online at www.AcceleratedRealEstateSolutions.com. Broker John Stahl, TX. # 0417781, Phone: 214-415-8008. Auctioneer Matt Blevins, TX. Auct. # 12077, Phone: 817-688-1464. Do not miss these real estate and land auction events. Buy real estate at Auction today! Details, registration and all terms and conditions on this real estate auction are highlighted online at Texas Real Estate Land Auctions

Pyramat S1500W Wireless Sound Rocker

Since we are in the modern age, seeing advanced stuff such as an innovative rocking chair is not surprising anymore. In fact, you may be thrilled to note that there is one available over at Amazon, the Pyramat S1500W Wireless Sound Rocker.

This lounge chair can be safely called a gamer’s chair as well. It comes with built-in speakers to make sure you get the ultimate gaming experience. Sounds are transmitted via wireless connection, eliminating the worries of additional disorganized cables coming your way. This lounge style gaming chair is compatible with all game consoles, TVs, DVD players and MP3 players.

The chair also offers a multi-player connection allowing up to 8 players to hook into the same audio output. A control panel on the right side of the lounger allows you to adjust both volume and bass levels. The lounger is generously padded and is constructed of a breathable mesh microfiber fabric.

Price: $79.99

(Source) Amazon

Super Celebrity Estate Sale Being Held for Martina McBride, Sheryl Crow & Blair Garner

An estate sale, being conducted by Berenice Denton Estate Sales of Nashville,TN,featuring items from the homes of multi-platinum country superstar, Martina McBride, Grammy award winning pop-rock artist, Sheryl Crow and Blair Garner, host of the nationally syndicated radio show, After Midnite, is being held September 9-13, 2009 at 2950 Del Rio Ct in Franklin, TN. This historic Empire home, Mapleshade, built by the Y.M. Rizer family in 1880, is filled to the brim with fabulous items such as furniture, decorative accessories, window treatments, cabinetry, artwork, books, vintage toys, chandeliers, mirrors, and much more!

"It is a pleasure to work with such wonderful, humble celebrities that have made Nashville their home." Said Berenice Denton owner of Berenice Denton Estate Sales and Appraisals. "I look forward to meeting all of their fans and being a part of this amazing opportunity to take home a piece of memorabilia from their favorite stars!"

Among a few items featured at this estate sale extravaganza are Martina McBride's antique Waltham player piano, Brunswick billiard table and French carved king size bed, a beautiful marble top chest and console table from Sheryl Crow and a trestle table and child's antique fire truck riding toy from radio personality Blair Garner.

Dates and Times for this sale are:

Wednesday, September 9th-Friday, September 11th- 8am to 5pm, Saturday, September 12th - Sunday, September 13th, 9am to 4pm.

Press

Feng Shui Master Jami Lin Designs a New Home in Mexico

Feng Shui Interior Design master, Jami Lin, is able to use the communication resources of modern technology to counsel people all around the world. Recently, she helped design a home from scratch, in Mexico, as she worked from her studio in Venice, Florida. Using phone calls, video calls, email, and Skype, Jami was able to consult with her client on a regular basis.

Lupita's family had heard great things about Jami and made a special trip to Miami to get started on the design. Subsequent meetings were all done via modern technology.

Starting from scratch with a very restrictive lot, they worked on the architectural floor plan. The couple has four children, each with their own bedroom. All rooms needed good energy, with each person facing his or her best personal, sleeping directions. Specific lifestyle requirements included a traditional bar for socializing, meditation area, game room for the kids, and a home office.

Using Jami's Feng Shui expertise, they created other architectural details, such as teasing the eye to capture a glimpse into the next area. As both positive and negative energies exist in every home, they worked to manipulate traditional Mexican colors to maximize their benefits. Natural light in the interior came through via terraced balconies that also allowed green areas on the upper levels.

Press

Online Life-Enhancing Feng Shui Training Announces DIY Life Transformations

Internationally renowned master, best-selling Feng Shui author, and seasoned interior designer announce do-it-yourself Feng Shui classes on the web.

Feng Shui guide on about.com, raves, "The Feng Shui home-study program is an outstanding course for the novice or beginner to learn the power of Feng Shui and how to easily apply the principles. Jami Lin has created an excellent nine week online course that is affordable and convenient."

Jami Lin describes, "Every person has natal talents and shortcomings as does every home. A good singer with clumsy feet can improve both voice and grace. Every room has both favorable and unfavorable aspects that can be enhanced with little or no cost."

Looking to increase wealth? Position a few existing items in the office for success and opportunity and rid it of severed fate and bankruptcy to build up the bank account and strengthen a financial future!

Real Estate Auction Online eBay Style

From the snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the hot jazz quarters of New Orleans, a wide variety of real estate auction opportunities awaits prudent purchasers in an online auction featuring over 225 properties, 21 properties in Colorado, Arkansas and Louisiana offered by Rowell Auctions, Inc. a national leader in online real estate auctions. The auction is open to all, from the first- time home buyer to the savviest of investors. And it’s all as easy as buying an eBay offering.

Prospective bidders go to RowellAuctions.com to view information on the properties in Colorado, Arkansas and Louisiana and find properties that interest them. The next step filling out a short registration form to get registered to bid. Rowell Auctions, Inc. is also offering real estate auction properties in Georgia, Florida, Alabama, North Carolina, Michigan, and Indiana. If bidders have questions the Rowell Auctions site will also explain the terms and conditions of the sale and answer a host of frequently asked questions.

Bids may be placed at www.RowellAuctions.com, and bidders may check the progress of the bidding at leisure, day or night. The bidding operates eBay style and bidders may enter a maximum bid that will automatically raise until that bid's maximum is exceeded by another bidder. Email alerts will keep bidders informed during the auction process. When asked about the differences between eBay and Rowell Auctions, Inc.'s method, Auction Coordinator Todd Simmons responds, "One important change from the eBay style of bidding is the 'anti-sniping' auto-extend feature. This feature keeps the auction going if you're out bid in the last couple minutes before time is up. Just like an on site auction the last 10 minutes are usually the most exciting! Rowell Auctions has pioneered the sale of real property online only and stand by ready to answer any of your questions."

Prospective home buyers interested in that new jazz house or mountain retreat, the bidding has already opened on August 20,2009 and will close at 2 PM EDT on September 3, 2009. This sale includes condos in Denver and New Orleans and single- family homes all across the three states, and all are being sold by a lending institution looking for new owners. Todd Simmons also suggests that, "Buying real estate has never been easier and bidders can be confident in participating, knowing this auction is being conducted by Rowell Auctions, Inc., a trusted name in property sales for more than 75 years." It all begins with the stroll to these homes right at the computer. Look at all the real estate auctions.

Press

Double Digit Losers Lead Worst Housing Markets

They have changed from time to time over the year, but the Worst 25 U.S. Housing Markets forecast in 2009 are reaching the point where they're fitting into their positions these days. The worst economic conditions since the Great Depression have produced plenty of double-digit losers.

The financial crisis has triggered record foreclosures and is hurting communities across the country as Housing Predictor forecast. There are, however, improving signs for markets with a rise in home sales in some areas of the country with a handful of markets that will be the exception to the rule.

The Hottest 10 markets aren't confined to any particular part of the country scattered throughout the U.S. Housing Predictor's selection of the Hottest 10 Buyers Markets are based on research carried on over the entire year on all 250 local real estate markets Housing Predictor tracks. In most cases the markets won't appreciate much in 2009, but possess plenty of indicators to show that their housing markets will remain strong over the next few years, despite the down fall in the national economy.

Housing Predictor is consulted by the nation's foremost investment houses, banks, mortgage companies, real estate firms and most importantly consumers for more than 250 local housing market forecasts in all 50 states. Forecasts are updated regularly and changed as local market conditions demand over the entire year.

Press

Tinkerbell and Butterfly Decorative Night Light

Handcrafted in the USA to the highest standards using licensed materials with great individual care and attention to detail. We are certain that you will be completely delighted and satisfied with the Tinkerbell and Butterfly Decorative Night Light.

All purchased Items will arrive via USPS and a the tracking # will be sent to you. We also offer matching Drawer Knobs, Outlet Covers, Double Size Switchplates, Triple Size Switchplates, Rocker GFI Covers, Combo Switchplates, Phone and Cable Covers.

(Source) Amazon

Domino: The Book of Decorating

The editors of Domino magazine here show how amateurs can achieve a young, sophisticated look in their homes. A brief review of important preliminary considerations—budget, defining one's own style, the room's function—is followed by advice for decorating every room of the house, including children's rooms and offices. Different styles are shown for each in plenty of color photographs, with suggested furnishings and advice on how to mix styles. Each chapter concludes with a look at how a Domino staff member has decorated a similar room with a description of her approach to design. Recommended for large public libraries.

Domino: The Book of Decorating cracks the code to creating a beautiful home, bringing together inspiring rooms, how-to advice and insiders' secrets from today's premier tastemakers in an indispensable style manual. The editors take readers room by room, tapping the best ideas from domino magazine and culling insights from their own experiences. With an eye to making design accessible and exciting, this book demystifies the decorating process and provides the tools for making spaces that are personal, functional and fabulous.

(Source) Amazon

Stanley Home Designs V8074 Ranch Small Single Hook

Stanley, the industry leader in hardware, brings to you a series of home hardware called home design. The Stanley Home Designs V8074 Ranch Small Single Hook series is a collection of items that are designed to coordinate a rooms hardware items down to every detail. This small single hook will enhance the rooms features as well as creating an elegance to your home.

* Small Single Hook * Mounting screws included * Unique Ranch design * Oil Rubbed Bronze finish

(Source) Amazon

Top 10 Myrtle Beach Real Estate Deals

TopTenRealEstateDeals.com is a new independent website offering exciting and unique Top 10 lists of today's best deals on real estate for sale. Their featured market addition is Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

The Myrtle Beach list features the 10 best deals on beach homes and condos in the Myrtle Beach area.

This list is a welcome addition to their already extensive list of regional markets. To view a full list of their regional real estate markets visit TopTenRealEstateDeals.com

The site also offers a weekly Real Estate Top 10 list of national (mainly United States) deals.

In addition to the best home and condo bargains, the Top Ten research team looks for fun eye catching deals. Recent Top Ten listings have included a spaceship house in Chattanooga, a cave home in Missouri, and a haunted house in Massachusetts.

Their independent Top Ten team focuses on uncovering the best luxury real estate deals from the web, newspapers, auction lists, and pre-construction ads while including only those deals that they feel are the very best bargains! The deals are not their listings, they do not broker sales, and they are not an agency. TopTenRealEstateDeals.com is a general media showcase of great deals on real estate for sale.

Press

Beverly Hills Real Estate Website Unveiled By Mara Granderson

Mara Granderson, the prominent luxury real estate specialist for premier Westside properties, has proudly announced the launch of her new website, MaraGranderson.com. Designed to be a one-stop resource for buyers, sellers and investors in Beverly Hills real estate of distinction, the website is interactive, user-friendly and continuously updated with the latest information on real estate, investment opportunities and local market trends.

Granderson is one of the Westside's preeminent listing agents, with a wealth of experience in marketing extraordinary properties for an equally distinguished clientele. Her website showcases these exceptional homes with flair, providing potential buyers with a compendium of stunning previews and lavish amenities.

Having partnered with the legendary Joyce Rey and Coldwell Banker Previews International, Granderson provides her clients with access to some of the finest Beverly Hills, Brentwood, Bel-Air and Holmby Hills real estate on the market today. These signature homes and estates are featured in the site's "Properties" page, accompanied by extensive descriptions and photographs that showcase each property's unique features.

Buyers, investors and developers interested in Beverly Hills, Bel-Air, Holmby Hills and Brentwood real estate will find a wealth of tools and resources. The site's easy-to-use Home Search feature, for example, pulls up a complete list of Beverly Hills and Westside real estate properties on the MLS that meet your requirements. For more information on Beverly Hills and its nearby areas, visitors to the site may click on the "Communities" section, where Granderson has assembled community profiles and relevant area links.

The Beverly Hills real estate market contains million-dollar estates and landmark, architecturally significant homes. It is one of the country's most emblematic luxury housing markets and navigating through it can often be a complex process. With the resources on the website and the commitment, experience and extensive insider's knowledge that Granderson herself provides, the process becomes more streamlined and straightforward, resulting in more equitable results and an invaluable sense of satisfaction.

Access this comprehensive new online resource for a preview of the wealth of real estate purchase and investment opportunities in the Beverly Hills area, as well as more in-depth information on the market and the communities.

Mortgage Advice: Deposit Still Crucial for First-time Buyers

The Bank of England announced on Thursday that they would be pumping an extra £50bn into the UK economy as part of their quantitative easing programme. Unfortunately for first-time buyers, this may not help to make mortgage deals more attainable, according to money comparison site CreditChoices.co.uk.

Despite a current total of £175 billion in quantitative easing, mortgage deals are still limited for buyers with a mortgage deposit of less than 25% of the price of the property. Recent figures from the Council of Mortgage lenders showed first-time buyers are stumping up an average deposit of £32,000 to climb the first rung of the property ladder.

Chris Eagle, commercial manager of CreditChoices.co.uk, said: 'Quantitative easing has not yet had a noticeable effect on the mortgage market and most first-time buyers are still struggling to raise a enough of a deposit to purchase a property. However, there are a number of steps first-time buyers can take to help build up the necessary deposit.'

Top tips from CreditChoices.co.uk on how to save for a mortgage deposit:

1) Use other savings

Chris Eagle recommends dipping into other savings: 'If you have savings separate from your deposit then it may make sense to use these to boost your deposit,' he says. 'The money you will save by getting a better interest rate on your mortgage is likely to outweigh any returns you are currently getting on cash in a savings account.'

2) Get better returns

You need to think carefully about where to put your money while you save, says Eagle. 'While you are saving up for your deposit, make sure your cash is earning as much interest as possible', he says. 'Savings interest rates are not great at the moment but there are always accounts that beat the rest.'

3) Spend less

Budgeting is crucial to maximising your saving power, says Eagle. 'Cutting back in the short-term will help you achieve your long-term goal of owning your own house,' he says.

4) Ask for help

Help from family is often vital for first-time buyers, says Eagle. 'Now more than ever, help from parents, family or friends can be make-or-break for first-time buyers', he says.

Eagle advises setting out a careful plan with your lenders, even if they are close family, to prevent trouble further down the line. 'You should always agree in advance how you will pay back the loan,' he says. 'Look carefully at whether you will be able to repay it in a reasonable time, and put everything in writing with a copy for both parties.'

5) Get a loan

An unsecured loan which boosts your deposit could get you a better mortgage deal, says Eagle. 'Just make sure you get your sums right and that it is cheaper than getting a mortgage without it. Also remember to include loan repayments into your calculations for monthly repayments.'

6) Speak to an expert

It's important to get all the facts and to compare mortgages, says Eagle, as you may find there are mortgage options you had never thought about.

'Speak to an expert', he says. 'If you are struggling to build up a large mortgage deposit, there may be specific options you can consider, such as part-ownership mortgages, graduate mortgages, guarantor mortgages and government-assisted mortgages.'

Press

Master Gardener Lee O'Hara Releases Two New 'How To' DVDs

Master organic gardener Lee O'Hara (www.organichomegardener.com) is passionate about gardens, home grown organic food and teaching others the methods he has discovered through years of growing magnificent vegetables. "Awareness of the environment and our impact on it has increased greatly over the last decade. An organic garden is an excellent - not to mention delicious - action anyone can take to improve the environment and to improve health," O'Hara said.

"People just don't know how easy it is and how much fun it is - otherwise we would have more gardens than lawns," O'Hara continued. "The investment is small and pays back many times over with organic vegetables you would pay a small fortune for at the Farmer's Market. Especially if you watch my videos and avoid all the mistakes I made."

Seven of O'Hara's tomato plants, a few inches high, planted in April, produced more than 800 pounds of organic tomatoes by October and still had 10 or 20 pounds on the vine. Using raised beds, homemade compost, a few simple tools and procedures while working in the garden an hour or two per week, he produces far more food than he can eat. This results in well-fed and devoted friends who become avid students of his gardening methods.

The DVDs Organic Home Gardening Made Easy ($22.95 plus shipping and sales tax) The Organic Tomato ($12.95 plus shipping and sales tax) can be ordered on the website, by phone (818 249-2611) or by mailing a personal check or money order to EZ Garden, 2355 Honolulu Ave. Suite 200, Montrose, CA 91020. Order both for only $29.95 plus shipping and tax.

Press

Cabinetparts.com Makes Granite Look for Countertops Easier

Laminate for Countertops has come a long way in the past 2 years. With the introduction of High Definition laminate, Wilsonart created a product that mimics the look and feel of real stone. A new process called Aeon Enhanced Performance "dramatically improves wear and scuff resistance on Wilsonart HD and Premium laminate designs."

Changing the look of your countertop can increase the value of your home whether you are improving to sell, or just want to enhance your space. "The large-scale granite look remains in high demand among budget-conscious homeowners remodeling their kitchens and baths, and new designs from Wilsonart Laminate fill that need in spades."

Laminate for Countertops is readily available, ships and installs easily and has literally thousands of colors and designs to choose from. "No matter what your budget or style, whether you are a design professional or consumer, we have a product to fit your needs."

RealEstateInvestorsWebSites.net Unveils New Interactive Real Estate Investing Web Sites

A real estate investing and marketing firm, http://RealEstateInvestorsWebSites.net has unveiled new database-driven, web 2.0 interactive web sites for real estate investing. The web sites are created to make buying and selling houses easier and faster, as well as adapting to any real estate investing needs. A free local search engine optimization service for each web site delivered serves to increase visibility in the market and deliver more business.

A leading provider of real estate investing web sites, http://RealEstateInvestorsWebSites.net has rolled out a new version of database-driven, interactive web sites aimed at helping real estate investors maximize efficient use of their time by buying and selling or renting more properties faster. "With the adaptability to suit any real estate investing needs, it is now possible to have your web site fully customized for your business complete with your company branding within a few hours."

With numerous designs to choose from, investors that buy houses directly from motivated sellers can customize their web sites within just a few minutes and be online within one hour.

And with the ability to share properties on social networking sites like Twitter, Facebook, Myspace and others, as well as the ability to automatically build a list of people looking to buy your properties, they make the work of selling or renting houses a lot faster.

The web sites are easy to control from a virtual back office (admin panel) designed for use by any real estate investor even if they are new to computers. They are designed to tell your story if you buy from motivated sellers and move your properties faster when you sell. And with free search engine optimization and help to target your local market on search engines, they also serve to attract more business.

Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet Predicts Four Key Trends in Outdoor Kitchen Design

Outdoor kitchen design is undergoing a transformation. A new report, released by Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet, the industry leader in outdoor kitchens, predicts four key trends will shape the market: outdoor kitchens increasingly built under shelter, the explosion of available features in high-end outdoor kitchens, artisanal cooking techniques that require specialized equipment and an influx of new design professionals from a broader range of disciplines.

Report highlights include:

More Design Professionals from Broader Disciplines

Once the domain of landscape architects and designers, outdoor kitchen design has seen an influx of new design professionals; in particular, interior designers are embracing the outdoors. In 2008, Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet saw consumers turning to interior designers to create their outdoor living spaces. The company predicts more designers of different backgrounds to start combining their expertise to bring outdoor kitchens to a new level. To address this trend, Kalamazoo offers outdoor kitchen design training programs to a variety of design professional organizations, including the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) whose members are interested in new business potential.

Bringing the Outside In

Outdoor kitchens began as a trend of taking the indoors outside; homeowners are now putting a roof over their outdoor kitchens. A sheltering structure provides a location for lighting, ceiling fans, helps retain heat from radiant heaters on cool spring and fall evenings, among others. More than 50 percent of designers attending Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet's kitchen design classes report seeing an increase in the number of outdoor kitchens being designed under a roof. Kalamazoo believes this trend will continue to strengthen and become more elaborate as more people combine their outdoor kitchens with outdoor living spaces.

Features Abound

Outdoor kitchens are evolving at a rapid pace, changing from "grill-centric" to true culinary work areas. The highest end of the market is demanding more sophistication, functionality and specialized appliances, including separate wine chillers for whites and reds, freezers and freezer drawers, multiple beer keg tappers, pizza ovens, wok burners and specialized storage. Kalamazoo sees the market's top end continuing its demand for specialized products while the middle market later incorporates proven pieces.

Artisanal Cooking Techniques

Cooking outdoors no longer means a sizzling slab of meat on a grill. The artisanal cooking trend, begun in high-end restaurants and moved into people's homes, expresses a reverence for the best ingredients used in simple combinations, prepared exceptionally well. Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet is now seeing the trend influencing people's choices in outdoor kitchen equipment: In 2008 the company's hybrid grill outsold its gas grill cousin by 10-to-1, providing proof that people want a versatile grill that allows them to cook over any combinations of gas, wood or charcoal; pizza ovens have become a popular addition to the outdoor kitchen, and Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet predicts the pizza oven to extend to more modest outdoor kitchens.

Appliance Art Releases an Inexpensive and Green Alternative to Purchasing New Appliances

For many, the kitchen is the most important room in the house. In the past, options for appliances have remained limited by color or texture. Decorating a kitchen relies heavily on personal taste, style, opinion and feel. It was with this in mind that GRIP Promotions releases its first ever line of consumer products: Appliance Art. Appliance Art is a line of appliance wraps that upgrade the cosmetic appearance of appliances. With static cling, magnetic and adhesive vinyl options, Appliance Art can be installed in a few minutes and will help to keep many junkyards, landfills, and appliance graveyards free from housing appliances that can still function for several more years.

"Our focus groups indicated that the main reason consumers replaced appliances was dissatisfaction of cosmetic appearance rather than the appliance malfunctioning," Said Grant Smith, President of GRIP Promotions. Grant adds, "It was in this research that we saw a demand for an inexpensive way to change the appearance of an appliance without replacing it. In this recession, feeling comfortable at home has become a higher priority. We wanted people to be able to feel that they can improve their homes without spending hundreds or thousands of dollars to replace items in their kitchens." Appliance Art, all options priced at $44.99 with free shipping, intends to add additional categories and appliance options on a weekly basis.

Press

GE Unveils “Net Zero Energy Home” Concept

A leader in Smart Grid solutions, GE today unveiled plans for a “Net Zero Energy Home” project which combines GE's most efficient appliances and lighting, the company's new energy management systems, and GE power generating and storing technologies in new home construction. When applied together, the system would enable a homeowner to achieve net zero energy costs by 2015. The Net Zero Energy Home project -- and new smart grid consumer poll data from the U.S. and the U.K. -- were introduced at GE's smart grid symposium at its Global Research Center in upstate New York.

As part of the company’s ecomagination strategy, the GE Net Zero Energy Home offerings will be comprised of three major groups within the product portfolio: energy efficient products including appliance and lighting products that will reduce energy consumption in the home; energy management products that will enable consumers to manage their costs and energy consumption; and energy generation/storage products like solar PV, advanced energy storage and next generation thin film solar that will play an integral part in the net zero energy home.

“Much of today’s electrical grid dates back to the days of our founder Thomas Edison," explained Mark Little, senior vice president and director, GE Global Research. "And while that grid has served us well for decades, we recognize that by investing in technologies to transform the current electrical infrastructure, GE will be able to provide powerful solutions for customers around the world for the next 100 years. We’re working with our utility and government partners to deploy energy-efficient technologies today, in a way that will empower consumers without compromising their lifestyle.”

One new product that will give consumers more control will be available as early as 2010, when GE will introduce the Home Energy Manager, the central nervous system for the Net Zero Energy Home that will work in conjunction with all the other enabling technologies in the home to help homeowners optimize how they consume energy. GE will also introduce a line of smart thermostats in 2010 that, together with the Home Energy Manager, will inform consumers on their energy use and empower them to make smarter decisions on their energy consumption. The smart thermostats can help consumers significantly save on their energy bills.

RentCharlie.com Helps Consumers Save Time, Money and the Environment

At one time or another, most people have rented a car or rented a hotel room. But now, courtesy of the new website RentCharlie.com, consumers can rent just about anything, from tools and equipment to property and party supplies.

If you don't need to buy it, rent it! Thanks to the new 100 percent free website, users save money and space while lessening the impact of production, distribution and product marketing on the environment. In today's economy, businesses and the general public are looking for ways to save. We are all more conscience of not only our bank account balances, but also saving ourselves time and space whilst trying to best limit our environmental footprint. Surprisingly, making slight changes - like renting over purchasing - can help address these issues and dramatically change the way we live and spend our hard earned dollars.

Renting Saves Money
When considering the cost of a new drill ($59-$159) compared to the cost of renting one ($5-$10 a day), it makes fiscal sense to rent. As a society, we accumulate unnecessary "stuff" constantly when, especially during times of recession, there is money to be saved through renting. Dr. Frank Shaw, Foresight Director at the Centre for Future Studies says the catalyst is the current financial turmoil, but the implications will be more far reaching, extending well beyond the recession.

"We are witnessing the beginnings of a mega shift towards the Rental Society in which the unsustainable growth in production and consumption will be reversed," he affirms. "The disposable mentality' will give way to efficient use and this will serve to reduce the adverse impacts on the environment."

Renting Saves Space
It's usually during spring cleaning when one notices all the "stuff" piling in garages and basements. Some have so much "stuff" that they have to put some of it in storage. Alexandria, Virginia-based Self Storage Association (SSA) indicates that the number of primary self storage facilities in the United States has nearly doubled since 2000. At the end of 2006, more than 51,000 primary self storage facilities dotted the country, with 23,075 of those facilities added between 2000 and 2006. Renting what one needs will stop some of that "stuff" from piling up, which will consequently save space, time and the cost of storing belongings.

Renting Helps the Environment
Every time something is purchased, there is considerable waste - manufacturing, distribution and packaging have a serious and negative impact on the environment. According to The Earth Group, 30 percent of landfill waste is created by plastic and paper bag packaging. Renting re-uses products as opposed to over-consuming products unnecessarily. The less "stuff" being made is better for our planet which is better for all of us.

RentCharlie.com was created in order to save money, space and the environment. With so many general search engines on the Internet today, niche search engines are providing better and more specific information to those who need it. Given that the North American rental market is a $39 billion industry, the creators of RentCharlie.com felt a niche search engine was appropriate. Their vision was to launch a search engine to provide reliable and accurate search results, making it easier for people, businesses and rental companies to connect with one another.

Megan Fox Chooses a Hollywood Hills Home

Michael Tunick, a top producer at Sotheby's International Realty's Sunset Strip office, proudly announced the launch of his enhanced website - MichaelTunick.com. This new service aims to combine Michael's successful business philosophy and client services with a convenient and accessible web interface.

The website design offers a straightforward way for visitors looking to learn more about the area, properties and lifestyle. A complimentary MLS search is provided, as is a 'Current Listings' page that showcases the many fine properties being handled by Michael. Users can also view the properties that Tunick has successfully represented and sold from this page.

Buyers and sellers will find an exhaustive catalog of Hollywood Hills real estate properties, as well as residences in Silver Lake, Los Feliz, Outpost Estates, Mulholland Drive, Nichols Canyon and the Sunset Strip. The homepage links to various pages that provide vivid descriptions of the range of homes available from single-family properties to condos and estates.

Click on 'Silver Lake Condos' for example, and you will be brought to a page detailing the advantages of owning a condominium in this neighborhood and its corresponding lifestyle. Every page also has a 'View Listings' button available for quick access to homes for sale, and the MLS search tab is always available throughout the web experience. The 'Buyers & Sellers' tab is crucial to learn more about the personalized services Michael offers.

The Los Angeles area is a highly sought after residential destination, and requires a strong resource to uncover and manage potential investments. Sites like MichaelTunick.com can certainly aid in optimizing the home buying and selling experience.

Press

Top Ten Southwest Florida Real Estate Deals

TopTenRealEstateDeals.com is a new independent website offering exciting and unique Top 10 lists of today's best deals on real estate for sale. Their current featured market addition is Southwest Florida.

"Right now is the time to buy in Southwest, Florida! With pricing at historic lows, low interest rates, and high inventory levels ... Why would you wait any longer?" says Southwest Florida Top Ten Concierge, Joe Muni.

The Southwest Florida list features the 10 best deals on a mix of waterfront homes and condos in the Southwest Florida area servicing Naples, Bonita Springs, Bonita Beach, Marco Island and Fort Myers Beach.

To view the Southwest Florida Top Ten Real Estate List visit: http://www.toptenrealestatedeals.com/luxury_real_estate/condos/regional/florida_southwest/.

This list is a welcome addition to their already extensive list of regional markets. To view a full list of their regional real estate markets visit http://www.toptenrealestatedeals.com.

The site also offers a weekly Real Estate Top 10 list of national deals in the United States.

In addition to the best home and condo bargains, the Top Ten research team looks for fun, eye catching deals. Recent Top Ten listings have included a spaceship house in Chattanooga, a cave home in Missouri, and a haunted house in Massachusetts.

Their independent Top Ten team focuses on uncovering the best luxury real estate deals from the web, newspapers, auction lists, and pre-construction ads while including only those deals that they feel are the very best bargains. The deals are not their listings, they do not broker sales, and they are not an agency. TopTenRealEstateDeals.com is a general media showcase of great deals on real estate for sale.

For further information, or to request an interview with a company representative, please contact their Internet Marketing Director, Jason Wakefield at press(at)toptenrealestatedeals(dot)com.

Press

It's A Great Time For Real Estate In Austin, Texas

TopTenRealEstateDeals.com is a new independent website offering exciting and unique Top 10 lists of today's best deals on real estate for sale. Their current featured market addition is Austin, Texas.

"According to Relocation.com, Austin TX is the #1 city to which to relocate for a fresh start. This means that if you're down and out somewhere else in the country, moving to Austin would lift your spirits and offer you a new, fresh start for life, family, and career. " says Austin Real Estate Top Ten Concierge, Donna Harris.

The Austin list features the 10 best deals on a mix of waterfront homes, ranches, and condos in the Austin, Texas area.

To view the Austin Top Ten Real Estate List visit: http://www.toptenrealestatedeals.com/luxury_real_estate/condos/regional/austin/

This list is a welcome addition to their already extensive list of regional markets. To view a full list of their regional real estate markets visit http://www.toptenrealestatedeals.com

The site also offers a weekly Real Estate Top 10 list of national deals in the United States.

In addition to the best home and condo bargains, the Top Ten research team looks for fun, eye catching deals. Recent Top Ten listings have included a spaceship house in Chattanooga, a cave home in Missouri, and a haunted house in Massachusetts.

Their independent Top Ten team focuses on uncovering the best luxury real estate deals from the web, newspapers, auction lists, and pre-construction ads while including only those deals that they feel are the very best bargains! The deals are not their listings, they do not broker sales, and they are not an agency. TopTenRealEstateDeals.com is a general media showcase of great deals on real estate for sale.

Press

Foreclosure Sale Stopped With Only Minutes To Spar

Minutes before a foreclosure sale a 68-year-old Orange County woman is given a second chance - a chance not many property owners get. With the housing market still down, foreclosures escalating and unemployment rates rising; statistics still show that those who face foreclosures don't get a chance to see the light in this dark economy. 68-year-old Shirley Jobe became an exception.

Jobe, a retiree with minimal income, was given twenty loans by Defendant Abex Mortgage Company involving eight different pieces of property she had accumulated throughout her life. She paid $800,000 in loans fees over four years. Her attorney Douglas J. Pettibone of The Law Office of Douglas J. Pettibone claims defendants manipulated and influenced Jobe causing her to refinance the properties over and over for the primary purpose of generating loan fees. With insufficient income to qualify for these loans, Jobe had fallen victim to alleged predatory lending practices.

"When Mrs. Jobe came to me she had 72 hours before her property was to be sold," Pettibone says, "I saw some clear violations of lending practices and I believe she was taken advantage of and the court eventually agreed with me".

Pettibone asked the court for an emergency order to stop the sale of Jobe's property. "Jobe knew what she was getting into from the beginning," representatives from Abex told the court, "Further [Abex] was the victim not Jobe". Pettibone claims defendants knew she wasn't able to pay off the loans giving them the opportunity to take her properties. The court agreed with Pettibone (Jobe v. Abex Mortgage Case No: CIVDS900081-San Bernardino Superior Court).

On the day of the sale the court granted Pettibone's request. Within minutes of the sale taking place Pettibone hand delivered a certified copy of the court's order to the sheriff effectively stopping the sale.

"We have taken all their leverage away", Pettibone says, who has tried in excess of 80 cases; "The case will settle…however it will settle on our terms - not theirs."

For now Jobe remains in the property.

Pettibone who runs his practice out of Irvine, California specializes primarily in business and real estate litigation and has devoted a portion of his practice to protection of predatory lending.

Press

Mortgage after Foreclosure: A Breath of Hope

There is no doubt that foreclosure can badly impact on your credit score for a number of years, particularly if you wish to buy a house. Obtaining a mortgage after foreclosure can truly become a nearly impossible job for you. Nevertheless, if you carry a bad credit rating as a result of foreclosure, you need not be burdened with a subprime mortgage with an irrationally high interest rate.

Throughout the first two years following foreclosure, you would have restricted options while looking for a new mortgage. Lenders usually would not accept you for a loan. Nevertheless, this helps you have the time to do something important.

Shop Smartly

There are steps that you can take to overturn a poor credit rating. Make timely payment of your bills and bargain a reduced interest rate on your credit cards. Finally, lenders wish to view a reliable track record.

Buying a new home signifies saving money for a down payment once more. After a foreclosure, mortgage rates might be exorbitantly hiked, as far as 3 to 4 percentage points over existing rates. However, if you can make a down payment of 20%, you can get better terms and conditions on your loan and stay away from Private Mortgage Insurance or PMI. Unluckily, when you have a credit score of 600 or below, you would usually have no option but to make a down payment between 5 and 20 percent in any case.

The solution to reducing your mortgage rate hence is to raise your rate of savings. For the purpose of doing this, you need to remain tolerant. Formulate a budget that incorporates earmarking of a major portion of your monthly income into a savings account. Subsequently, follow the budget.

Because mortgage lenders evaluate the past three years of your credit history, it is always beneficial to record on paper why there is a foreclosure on your credit report. Monitor your credit and always try to better it.

In the end, shopping smartly is the key to finding a mortgage after foreclosure. Evaluate rates on the Internet to obtain the best possible deal. Curb your spending and you can get a mortgage in spite of undergoing a foreclosure. As soon as you get it, you can again become a homeowner.


Contributed by Mortgage Fit Community

You can get a mortgage after foreclosure and purchase a home despite a bad credit rating.

Homelement.com Introduces its High-Quality Specialty Store

BedroomSetDirect offers a complete range of bedroom furniture. Their expansive inventory includes traditional and contemporary bedroom set; beds, headboards, dressers, chests, nightstands, armoires, vanities & mirrors, benches, bedroom accessories, daybeds and futons, and much more. Just some of the popular brands featured are Powell, Pulaski, American Drew, Homelegance, Hillsdale, Global Furniture USA, Home Styles, Nexera, Prepac, and Abbyson Living.

The country’s tumultuous economy has increased demand for quality, affordable furniture. BedroomSetDirect meets this demand: every item offered combines high quality and superior craftsmanship. Additionally, all items are durable, which offers long-lasting value.

BedroomSetDirect.com is committed to creating a smooth, complete—and safe—online shopping experience. To accomplish this, they offer “Furniture Shopping Made Simple.” More than a motto, this is a company mission, driving them to offer Selection, Quality, Better Savings, and Professional Service, with every transaction.

The BedroomSetDirect site is incredibly easy to use. Additional features include: bestsellers, for the site’s current top-selling items; featured items, highlighting the day’s big deals and specials; and shop by brands, an easy-to-use sortable feature allowing customers to quickly search for their favorite brand. All items for sale are viewable in clear, helpful—and authentic—photographs. BedroomSetDirect accepts all major credit cards, Google checkout, and PayPal, and provides a secure web server payment technology.

Homelement Stores, Inc., parent company of Homelement.com, is excited about the launch of BedroomSetDirect.com. “Our customers have been telling us for months that they’d like a one-stop store specializing in bedroom furniture. BedroomSetDirect resoundingly meets this demand by providing selection, price, and quality,” states Joice Tan, Operations Manager for Homelement.

Press

Jamaica Real Estate Strata Corporations Agitate For New Property Laws

Jamaica property and strata corporations lobby the Jamaican government to get proactive laws that will force real estate owners to remain compliant with maintenance fees and insurance premiums; Colin Scott VP of Jamaica-Real Estate.Net comments on the importance of this unprecedented law in Jamaica's history and how it could dramatically change the values of real estate in the island.

Jamaica real estate values are set to get a boost if the Jamaica Association of Strata Corporations (JASC) can lobby the government into drafting new laws that will result in stiffer penalties for delinquent owners of Jamaica apartments. "The major problem has been the non payment of maintenance fees and insurance premiums by property owners in strata run complexes," stated Colin Scott VP of Jamaica-Real-Estate.Net. "If these fees are not paid the property can quickly become dilapidated and shrink values by as much as 70%," Scott added. Research has shown that of the two thousand plus registered strata complexes island wide, over ninety percent of these properties owe on their maintenance fees and insurance premiums. This is a staggering number that now threatens to undermine real estate values in the country.

Possibly the most alarming fact is that when most of these properties are placed on a Jamaica auction, they end up being sold without any consideration to previously owning fees on the property. This is really a loop hole in the system caused by little or no government oversight with regard to the matter of strata management. It is based on this fact that the JSAC is agitating for new legislature that should prompt renewed education and reduced delinquency in strata run properties. "It is the Jamaica mortgage companies that have really suffered in this matter," Scott cited. What he was referring to was the fact that as collateral values waned there existed a tangible risk of debt to collateral value ratios becoming weaker.

The new law if passed might well widen the existing rift in values of Jamaica real estate in urban, rural and tourist regions. One of the most startling anomalies cited in appraisals of homes for sale in Montego Bay Jamaica was the disparity in estimated market values of as much as eight thousand percent (8,0000%) in properties less than one (1) mile apart in distance. As mind boggling as this discovery was, the fact is that owners of apartments in tourist regions are much more likely and able to remain compliant with strata fees. This means that in the existing down turned economy the values of property in urban and rural areas will decrease and a much more significant rate than those in the counterpart tourist trafficked areas.

Jamaica beach homes fall in this category. As these are known as prime property it is essential that proper maintenance be employed to keep the values stable. Thus the proposed law would seek to regularize the process to levy a caveat on the title on all property within the strata. This would preclude the sale of any property before all arrears owning are cleared. This can address only the problem of delinquent property owners and not wayward strata managers. Typical cases of the latter can be found as many homes in Negril Jamaica are controlled by strata organizations yet are left to run down to deplorable conditions dues to corrupt strata controllers.

Press

Can a 100-Year-Old Home Become Green?

Although the "greening" of an existing house has unique challenges not faced by those who have chosen sustainable new construction, the US Green Building Council (USGBC) believes it is possible to create an energy and resource efficient home and site after undergoing a "gut" rehabilitation.

The "gut" rehab of the 100-year-old Dutch Colonial in Cornwall-on-Hudson was designed and completed by Aryeh Siegel Architect, of Beacon, New York. The construction manager was Noah Matalon of Radiant Consulting, Garrison, New York. The Landscape Architect & Environmental Planner for the project was Dirk Sabin of Marbledale, Connecticut.

In addition, the heating & cooling system assessment and installation were performed by Keith Monthie of AccuAire of Poughkeepsie, New York. The Radon Residential Mitigation Provider was David Barber of Acceptable Environment in Newburgh, New York. As well, the energy efficient lighting design was created by Christopher Ventresca, LEED AP, of Manhattan, New York, a Principal of interior design firm Ventresca Design.

The residence is currently part of the USGBC's Pilot program for "Gut" Rehab Projects and is being evaluated for a LEED designation, with the likelihood of being the first "gut" rehab project in New York State to be awarded "Gold Certification." The dwelling has already qualified for the Home Energy Star designation.

Press

Colorado Mountain Estate Debuts!

One of the finest luxury estates in Evergreen, Colo., is -- for the first time in its 24 years -- available for purchase. Nicknamed Meadow Mountain Estate and nestled on 7.8 acres in Evergreen's prestigious Soda Creek community, the supremely custom land/home package is offered at $5.2 million. It is listed by Coldwell Banker Residential Brokers of Evergreen.

Built into Soda Creek's wooded hillside, the southwestern-style main residence began as a smaller more traditional home when constructed in 1985. But in 1992, its original owner, Terry Epstein, began a massive renovation of the existing structure. The three-year transformation added 3,700 square feet to the main home and completely changed its interior and exterior motif.

Working with Evergreen-based Tolleson Architects and Vintage Designs, the end result was a stunning 10,000+-square-foot reflection of the architecture, materials and nature-inspired ambience that Epstein had always admired while vacationing in Santa Fe, N.M.

"I had traveled to Santa Fe numerous times when I decided I wanted to dramatically change the look and feel of my property," says Epstein. "I wanted a property that was more comfortable, more natural. . . a place where one could really enjoy life."

Epstein even went so far as to add a 600-square-foot heated guest tipi on the property grounds. Designed by Lakota Indian John Eagleday, the tipi is complete with authentic hand-painted Native American wall murals, a stone-ringed fire pit, hardwood floors, an AV system and waterproof canvas walls custom crafted by Colorado Yurt Company.

Post-renovation, the home features seven private bedroom suites, a solar-heated indoor pool and hot tub, four striking water features, a 12-person hot tub cavern, a game room, a 16-foot bar, a 1,200-bottle wine cellar, home theater, 17 televisions, audio-video system, numerous patios and roof-top decks, and more than 125 expansive windows framing views of the Continental Divide.

A meandering stone walkway connects the main home to the guest tipi, various terraces and park-like areas, a fenced playground and a six-stall livery stable with caretaker's quarters.

This Rocky Mountain estate is sited just 35 minutes from downtown Denver and an hour from Colorado's world-class ski resorts.

Archerfish Featured on 'Designing Spaces'

Cernium Corporation, the leading developer of analytics-enabled video products, announced today that Archerfish(R), the first and only mobile video intelligence (MVI) solution, will be featured on the award-winning home improvement show, Designing Spaces. The segment, which features Archerfish at work in the home of an Arlington, VA family, will air nationally on the WE network on June 5, 2009 at 7:00 am ET and TLC on June 6, 2009 at 7:00 am ET.

Archerfish gives consumers an innovative, convenient way to keep an eye on their businesses and homes, no matter where they are physically located. Using a combination of video cameras, intelligent software and a custom web portal, Archerfish 'watches' businesses and homes for events users define as important, such as children coming home from school or an unwelcome intruder. Unlike other monitoring products, Archerfish does all the hard work for users by watching video 24x7 and pushing critical, visual information as events of interest occur. If and only when a defined event occurs, Archerfish notifies users with event text and video to their mobile device, email, or custom web portal.

"We are thrilled that Archerfish has been included on Designing Spaces. The segment gives viewers a realistic look at the benefits of Archerfish to both residential and business owners," said Helen Shepro, vice president, strategy and marketing, Cernium Corporation. "Designing Spaces has done a terrific job of highlighting how Archerfish provides timely, relevant, visual information about the people and places that matter most to consumers, no matter where they may be."

"Archerfish is the next evolution in place-shifting technology, enabling better lifestyle management, enhanced security and greater peace of mind," said Debbie Shuey, product manager, Archerfish. "Designing Spaces gave us the opportunity to show how Archerfish can help consumers juggle their increasingly complex home and work lives and provide information that is critical to managing important events."

Press

'Nation's Next Top Model Home' Interior Design Competition to Premiere June 15th

The beginning of a new genre of reality competitions emerged today with the announcement of the 2009 "Nation's Next Top Model Home" competition.

In this unique web-based challenge, seven lucky interior designers will be chosen to decorate the primary living areas of seven new model homes within a single new home community. Designers will ultimately be competing for a $25,000 cash prize.

Starting June 15th, "Nation's Next Top Model Home" will broadcast weekly online webisodes, spotlighting designers and their work through in-depth interviews, personal video blogs, and journals. The public can follow each designer as they begin their 28-day quest to turn a blank canvas into a beautifully staged living space. Fans of the show will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite designers, as well as their favorite interior design elements used in the competition.

The winning designer will ultimately be chosen by the public during the show's Grand Reveal weekend, where the actual model homes will be open for viewing for a period of 30 days. Visitors will be able to tour each designer's entry home and cast their votes for the winning design.

"This competition combines all the positive characteristics of reality shows and social media," said Kelly Burnette, one of the competition's founders. "It's the perfect opportunity to create a fun and dynamic following on the web, as well as provide terrific exposure for the participating designers and the host community."

The 2009 host community for this year's competition will be Compass Pointe. Located minutes outside historic Wilmington, North Carolina, the area is famous for beaches, warm breezes and southern hospitality. Known as a thriving new community, Compass Pointe is the ideal location to launch the competition's inaugural year.

Applications are currently being accepted through June 15th from regional designers interested in participating in the competition. Entry information can be found on the competition's website at www.nationsnexttopmodelhome.com.

Press

Tips For Making Your Home Feel Like New

Feldco Factory Direct, LLC brings a new element to people looking for a new home. By replacing windows, siding and doors, Feldco brings a fresh feel to an existing home. Products allow customers to create a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing living atmosphere. With windows, siding and doors being their specialty, they are the go-to for home improvement projects.

A Chicago tradition for over 30 years, Feldco offers free in-home estimates for their services along with a quick installation period, allowing the customer to have their home complete in mere days, a quicker and cheaper way of building a new feel to your existing home.

With this new concept in freshening homes, Feldco does not compromise on quality. "Throughout Feldco's history, we have been lauded as a company committed to fair and ethical business practices. We were the first home improvement company to join the Better Business Bureau of Chicago and Northern Illinois, and have remained a member in good standing for over thirty years, as well as an A+ grade," said Doug Cook, President.

Feldco products are Energy Star rated and qualify for the new $1,500 Federal Tax Credit for Energy Efficiency. All Feldco Windows, Siding and Door products are manufactured in the U.S.A.

Home Improvers Should Be Wary Of Tradesmen Touting Door to Door

Ratedpeople.com, the UK's largest match making service for home improvers and recommended tradesmen, has advised home owners not to consider tradesmen who use door to door methods of touting for work, and has suggested that residents take care when employing repair and maintenance workers.

More and more customers are being left out of pocket with poorly completed or unfinished jobs, as itinerant tradesmen, masquerading as professionals, approach home owners on their doorsteps posing as anything from local roofers to gardeners, trying to talk them into offering work.

Trading Standards has recently stated that it receives numerous complaints every year from home owners that have fallen foul of poor workmanship, inflated prices and even aggressive behaviour advising that care should be taken when employing repair and maintenance workers.

Indeed, government-endorsed TrustMark, has gone as far as to state that home owners should completely avoid workers who say they just happen to be in the area and try and talk them into a spur-of-the-moment decision.

However, Ratedpeople.com provides individuals with the means to avoid this, potentially very expensive, problem in the first instance. With a nationwide network of recommended tradesmen, from local builders to recommended bathroom designers, Ratedpeople.com has helped thousands of its users find a commendable tradesman within their local vicinity.

Ratedpeople.com looks to connect home owners and developers with interested local tradesmen who have been rated by their previous customers. The website aims to promote higher standards of home improvement, whilst creating an equal platform on which both businesses and consumers can communicate.

With over £30m in project value posted and monthly additions of more than 1,000 new tradesmen, Ratedpeople.com is the UK's largest match making service for home improvers and recommended tradesmen. The site has more than 55,000 unbiased ratings to date and ensures that tradesmen are only rated by actual customers.

PR Web

Breaking the Housing Crisis Cycle Requires Unique Approach, Says Cleveland Federal Reserve Bank

In its annual report, released today, the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland documents how the housing crisis cycle unfolded differently in its district than it did in other parts of the country. The Cleveland Fed also is proposing a multi-faceted approach to breaking the cycle that focuses on the interconnected nature of the problems that led to the crisis.

According to Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland research, areas within Ohio, eastern Kentucky, western Pennsylvania, and the northern panhandle of West Virginia didn’t suffer from the crash of hyper-inflated housing prices, as happened in California, Florida, and other overheated housing markets. The underlying problem was over-lending to people in a region that was under stiff economic pressure long before the recession set in.

Too many people ended up in mortgages they couldn’t afford, and when the economy took a nosedive, many of them became delinquent and defaulted on their loans.

Those defaults led to a high number of foreclosures, which led to an oversupply of housing, which led to home prices depreciating and borrowers and financial institutions taking on big losses.

To break the cycle, the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland supports taking the following actions:

* Provide financial incentives to mortgage lenders and servicers to modify loans for borrowers in trouble
* Help troubled borrowers stay in their homes by converting them from owners to renters
* Beef up code enforcement and clear legislation for land banks to help local governments better manage properties left vacant by foreclosure
* Help banks and financial institutions recapitalize so they can lend with confidence

The Cleveland Fed’s research shows that each pressure point in the housing crisis cycle feeds off and affects others, which is why the regional reserve bank is advocating a coordinated approach. It also recognizes that the problem took a long time to develop and recommends that efforts to return the region to health be sustained over the long term.

Press

Zetabid to Auction 100 Homes in Southern California

Zetabid, the pioneering firm redefining home auctions in the U.S., today said it will sell approximately 100 bank-owned homes in Southern California on Saturday, May 16, 2009 at the Pomona Fairplex.

The auction, Zetabid's third in Southern California in the past eight months, will include the sale of single-family homes, multi-family homes and condominiums in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, Kern and San Diego counties.

"The market for foreclosed residential properties in Southern California is as robust as we've seen it," said Bob Bellack, Chairman of Zetabid. "The strong demand for bank-owned properties is due to stabilizing housing prices, government stimulus programs and historically low interest rates. The confluence of these factors and the understanding that auctions are among the best ways to get a great property are likely to result in a strong turnout."

Over the past eight months, Zetabid has sold more than 1,000 homes in California, Florida and Arizona in 11 auctions. More than 4,000 people have participated, and many buyers have purchased homes for 50% of the list price at the height of the housing boom.

At the May 16 event in Pomona, Zetabid is expecting active bidding from first-time homebuyers. The federal government recently made it even more compelling to own a home for the first time by offering a tax credit of up to $8,000 to qualifying taxpayers who buy a home in 2009.

Source

Homebuyers Will Find Array of Bargains at Auction of Over 250 Detroit Foreclosures

In states like Michigan where foreclosures are abundant, buyers are eager to purchase bank-owned homes because they usually sell well below their market value. According to RealtyTrac, in March, Michigan reported the 9th highest foreclosure rate among the states, with 12,417 properties receiving filings. America's leading real estate owned (REO) auction firm, Hudson & Marshall will auction over 250 bank-owned homes in Detroit May 2nd and 3rd at 1:00 pm at the Doubletree Hotel Dearborn.

"We're seeing more owner-occupant buyers choosing to purchase foreclosures because they're great values in today's market," commented Dave Webb, Principal, Hudson & Marshall. "When buyers compare a home listed for sale with a comparable foreclosure in the same neighborhood, they're asking themselves why pay more for the same type of property," added Webb.

There is a wide selection of homes in the Detroit auction, valued from $1000 to nearly $400,000, for both investors and first-time homebuyers to choose from. All homes come with a clean, insurable title paid for by the sellers. Buyers will be required to make a $1,000 deposit with a certified check or cash on each property for which they are the winning bidder.

All homes being auctioned by Hudson & Marshall are sold "as-is" and buyers should inspect properties before placing any bids. Buyers may contact listing agents to make appointments to view homes. Complete property details and additional information may be found at www.hudsonandmarshall.com or by calling 866-539-4172.

The Detroit auction also will feature Hudson & Marshall's Alliance Network Program, a community outreach initiative created to attract more buyers and tenants in search of affordable housing to its auctions. Hudson & Marshall has partnered with local organizations that will be on site during the auction to answer questions and provide resources to buyers.

National Faith HomeBuyers Program, a non-profit organization counseling families on homeownership, will refer buyers and tenants who have completed its program to the auction. The tenant referral program is designed to help connect investor buyers, purchasing homes at the auction, with tenants in need of immediate housing. Several lenders also will attend the auction to answer questions and assist buyers with their mortgage needs. Additionally, TCN Construction Group, a contracting firm and APD Solutions, a property management company will be available during the auction to offer their services to investors.

Prior to auction, buyers can purchase property online by visiting the website and clicking on the Bid-Now icon. Sellers typically respond to offers within 24 hours. This is a reserve auction, which means sellers have the right to accept, reject or counter any bid; however, in past auctions conducted by Hudson & Marshall, the majority of offers have been accepted.

Having sold over 70,000 homes for sellers in the past eight years, Hudson & Marshall of Texas, Inc is the most experienced, trusted leader in the REO auction industry. The company's accelerated sales process enables it to swiftly and efficiently sell large volumes of property in a way that minimizes expenses for sellers and maximizes return. Over the past five years alone, Hudson & Marshall's total sales have topped $1.2 billion and the company anticipates selling another 30,000 homes through 2009.

Five Charged in $70 Million 'Dream Home' Mortgage Fraud Scheme

A federal grand jury has indicted four defendants, and an information has been filed against a fifth defendant, for their participation in a massive mortgage fraud scheme that allegedly promised to pay off homeowners' mortgages on their "Dream Homes," but left them to fend for themselves, Assistant Attorney General of the Criminal Division Lanny A. Breuer and U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein announced today.

The indictment was returned on April 22, 2009, and unsealed today.

"The Criminal Division and the U.S. Attorneys' Offices are jointly committed to redoubling our efforts to uncover and prosecute fraud and abuse in all facets of the housing market - a market upon which so many American families have pinned their hopes and their futures for so many years," said Assistant Attorney General of the Criminal Division Lanny A. Breuer. "I want to assure the American public that we will not rest until the tide of this criminal activity is turned."

"The indictment alleges that the defendants used slick marketing to conceal empty promises," said U.S. Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein. "They convinced many victims to invest at least $50,000 by refinancing their existing homes or buying new homes at inflated prices, while claiming that Metro Dream Homes would repay the mortgages with revenue from profitable businesses. The indictment alleges that there was no revenue to pay the mortgage payments. Instead, the conspirators used some of the investors' money to repay earlier investors in the Ponzi scheme and spent the remainder on themselves."

"The effects of this wide-ranging mortgage fraud scheme are particularly disturbing within the backdrop of today's economic environment. With our federal, state and local partners working on 18 mortgage fraud task forces and 47 mortgage fraud working groups across the country, the FBI is committed to combating mortgage fraud and other financial crimes nationwide to protect the American homeowner and the national economy," said Executive Assistant Director Thomas J. Harrington, FBI Criminal, Cyber, Response, and Services Branch.

"IRS Criminal Investigation takes allegations of mortgage fraud seriously," said "Eileen Mayer, Chief, IRS Criminal Investigation. "These types of crimes drive home owners into foreclosure, erode the integrity of our tax system and threaten the financial health of our communities."

According to the indictment, from 2005 to 2007 the defendants allegedly used corporate names such as "Metropolitan Grapevine LLC," "Metro Dream Homes," "POS Dream Homes," and "POS DH LLC" (collectively, MDH) to target homeowners and home purchasers to participate in a purported mortgage payment program called the "Dream Homes Program." To participate, an investor had to provide a minimum of $50,000 for each home enrolled in the program, in addition to an "administrative fee" of up to $5,000. In exchange, the program promised to make the homeowner's future monthly mortgage payments, and pay off the homeowner's mortgage within five to seven years. Thereafter, the homeowner and MDH would own an equal interest in the home.

The indictment alleges that Andrew Hamilton Williams, Jr., 58, of Hollywood, Fla., was the founder and owner of MDH; Michael Anthony Hickson, 46, of Commack, N.Y., was the chief financial officer; Isaac Jerome Smith, 46, of Spotsylvania, Va., was the president; and Alvita Karen Gunn, 31, of Hanover, Md., was the vice president of operations. The information alleges that Carole Nelson, age 50, of Washington, D.C., was the chief financial officer of POS Dream Homes.

The indictment further alleges that Dream Homes Program representatives explained to investors that the homeowners' initial payments would be used to fund investments in automated teller machines (ATMs), flat-screen televisions that would show paid business advertisements, and "Touch-N-Buy" electronic kiosks that sold telephone calling cards and other items. To give the Dream Homes Program a veneer of legitimacy and financial success, the defendants marketed the program through live presentations at luxury hotels in Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Beverly Hills, Calif., among other locations. The defendants allegedly told some of the investors that they should not worry about the price of the homes or monthly mortgage payments because MDH would make mortgage payments on their behalf.

The indictment alleges that the defendants failed to advise investors that: the ATMs, flat-screen televisions and kiosks never generated any meaningful revenue; the defendants used the funds from later investors to pay the mortgages of earlier investors; and MDH had not filed any federal income tax returns throughout its existence. The defendants also allegedly failed to advise investors that their investments were being used for the personal enrichment of select MDH employees, including the defendants, to: pay salaries of up to $200,000 a year as well as their mortgages; employ a staff of 10 chauffeurs and maintain a fleet of luxury cars; and travel to and attend the 2007 National Basketball Association All-Star game and the 2007 National Football League Super Bowl, staying in luxury accommodations in both instances. Nor were investors told that investor funds were allegedly used to: pay off investors in a prior failed ATM investment venture that Williams had founded called Bankcard Group; make multiple donations of up to $50,000 each to charitable organizations to allegedly give MDH the appearance of being financially successful; and fund investments in third-party businesses that had not been disclosed to investors.

On Aug. 15, 2007, the Maryland Securities Commissioner issued a cease-and-desist order to Williams, MDH and other related companies directing them to immediately cease the offering and sale of unregistered securities in connection with their promotion of the Dream Homes Program. However, the defendants thereafter allegedly called additional meetings in which they made additional misrepresentations about the financial success of MDH's operations. On Sept. 4, 2007, the defendants filed a legal challenge in federal court in Maryland to the cease-and-desist order. The indictment alleges that at a hearing on Sept. 12, 2007, Hickson testified that the financial success of the Dream Homes Program did not rely upon new investor funds, when in fact Hickson knew that the sole source of meaningful revenue for MDH was new investor funds.

As a result of the scheme, more than 1,000 investors in the Dream Homes Program invested approximately $70 million. When the defendants stopped making the mortgage payments, the homeowners were left to attempt to make the mortgage payments MDH had promised to make in full.

The four indicted defendants face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for the fraud conspiracy; 20 years in prison on each of the 15 counts of wire fraud; and 20 years in prison for conspiracy to commit money laundering. Hickson also faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison for making false statements. Smith also faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison for bank fraud arising out of his alleged misrepresentation of his income in order to obtain a bank loan to purchase a new Bentley automobile. Nelson was charged by information with money laundering, which carries a maximum penalty of ten years in prison. The indictment seeks forfeiture of the fraud proceeds, including $70 million.

An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at some later criminal proceeding.

This prosecution is being brought jointly by the Maryland and Washington, D.C. Mortgage Fraud Task Forces, which are comprised of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies in Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia. The Task Forces were formed to promote the early detection, identification, prevention and prosecution of various kinds of mortgage fraud schemes. This case, as well as other cases brought by members of the Task Forces, demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies to protect consumers from fraud and help to ensure the integrity of the mortgage market and other credit markets. Information about mortgage fraud prosecutions is available on the internet at http://www.usdoj.gov/usao/md/Mortgage-Fraud/index.html.

Assistant Attorney General Lanny A. Breuer and U.S. Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein praised the FBI, IRS - CI, the Maryland Attorney General's Office, Securities Division and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Office of Inspector General for their investigative work; and thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Maryland Jonathan C. Su and Bryan E. Foreman, who are prosecuting the case.

Guaranteed Home Mortgage Announces New Program to Help Its Branches Prevent Loan Fraud

Guaranteed Home Mortgage Company, Inc. (Guaranteed, www.ghmc.com), a national residential mortgage investment and banking firm, today announced the implementation of a new program to help its branches prevent fraud from prospective borrowers.

The program consists of a series of tools, techniques and procedures to confirm identities, verify asset value and tax filings, and utilize fraud profiles -- all designed to supplement the company's continuing emphasis on "zero tolerance" for any errors in compliance and documentation requirements.

David Wind, President of Guaranteed Home Mortgage Company, said, "Our new fraud program will protect our branches from applicant errors as well as intentional misrepresentations. Our mantra of zero tolerance assists residential loan applicants, too, by assuring first-time approval of loans in compliance with the most recent, and stringent, mortgage-loan regulations."

Wind went on to describe some of the components of the fraud program. Every appraisal is subject to review through an automated valuation model (AVM); tax verifications through the IRS are conducted on every loan; multiple ID forms are completed for all prospective borrowers; and a vendor web site evaluates applicants' incomes in relation to their industry.

Other steps include visiting an HUD web site for background checks prior to submissions for an FHA loan, and the use of an industry system to evaluate the risk factors for transactions.

Guaranteed Home Mortgage Company also applies a very high standard for its branches. In-depth background checks are conducted on new Guaranteed employees through Lexis, and all branch managers must complete an online web course titled "Fraud and Deterrence."

Wind concluded, "There's a reason why we've been in business over 15 years in a highly competitive industry. Delivering value through proactive programs and the finest support services makes our organization the gold standard for everyone else in the field."