Making Chester County Home Buying & Selling Less Stressful: October 2013

Thursday, October 31, 2013

Republicans Block Watt Nomination for FHFA Head

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 31, 2013 at 07:26PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1dV7DAD

Description:

Senate Republicans blocked on Thursday a vote on the nomination of Rep. Mel Watt (D-North Carolina) to head up the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). Watt’s nomination was stopped in a 56-42 vote to end the debate over his confirmation. Sixty vo

FDIC Announces Collapse of Florida Bank

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 31, 2013 at 01:14PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19fmORz

Description:

A Florida bank became the 23rd FDIC-insured institution to fall this year, the agency announced Wednesday.

The Amenities Trending Up (and Down) in Luxury Homes

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 31, 2013 at 12:19PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1cqatK6

Description:

Views, windows and outdoor spaces are the some of the most in-vogue amenities in luxury homes, according to an analysis of listing descriptions by real-estate website Trulia.

http://bit.ly/16NYLue

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 31, 2013 at 09:32AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/16NYLue

Description:

Foreclosures to ‘cast a long shadow’ in judicial states | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 31, 2013 at 09:15AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1aKX4gq

Description:

Foreclosures to ‘cast a long shadow’ in judicial statesshare this Oct 31, 2013 The number of homes in some stage of foreclosure continues to trend downwards, though continued delays in foreclosure timelines in judicial states are likely to slow the pace of improvement in the future, according to Cor...

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

More brokerages pull the plug on Zillow, Trulia | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 30, 2013 at 06:31PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1cmYn4h

Description:

Eight Austin-based real estate brokerages are taking a cue from their local Realtor association and will no longer send their listings to real estate portals not affiliated with a Realtor trade group. Earlier this month, the Austin Board of Realtors announced that, as of April 30, 2014, it would no…

LPS Price Index Inches Up in August

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 30, 2013 at 06:23PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1dqU1u9

Description:

Home prices continue to rise, albeit with some dampening due to seasonal impacts. However, prices are still appreciating faster than last year, according to Lender Processing Services’ (LPS) Home Price Index report for August. LPS calculated a 0.4 p

Brixmor Upsized IPO to Meet Demand

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 30, 2013 at 02:37PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/16LgemZ

Description:

Brixmor Property Group Inc., a shopping-center REIT, priced 41.25 million shares in its initial public offering at $20, raising about $825 million for owners Blackstone Group LP and marking the biggest IPO of a shopping-center company in a generation.

Wingspan Ranked Among Top Companies for Job Creation in 2013

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 30, 2013 at 12:11PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1clH8jX

Description:

Wingspan Portfolio Advisors, a diversified mortgage services company operating in Dallas, was named for the second straight year in Inc. Magazine’s Hire Power Awards, a list of the top 100 businesses in America for job creation.

Coatesville hires acting superintendent

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 30, 2013 at 08:43AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/16K7cGY

Description:

CALN — The Coatesville Area School District on Tuesday unexpectedly announced the hiring of a new acting superintendent in what district officials said was an effort to move the community forward and heal wounds left behind by the abrupt departure of tw

Bamboo Realty out to serve green-minded clients | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 30, 2013 at 05:54AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1aBSNtR

Description:

Bamboo Realty specializes in properties for lease in the relocation markets of Houston, Dallas and Fort Worth. The company focuses on serving the needs of green-minded renters and smoothing the relocation process. The company is one of 13 in the inaugural class of the Inman Incubator program, a year...

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Monthly Slowdown Seen in Aug. Case-Shiller Data, as Predicted | Zillow Real Estate Research

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 29, 2013 at 08:19PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1aAogMI

Description:

Today, the S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices showed that the non-seasonally adjusted (NSA) August 10- and 20-City Composites each rose 12.8 percent, respectively, on a year-over-year basis, in line with Zillow’s forecast released last month. On a seasonally adjusted (SA) monthly basis, the 10- and...

Rep. Frank: Revamped Mortgage Rules a ‘Grave Error” - MoneyBeat - WSJ

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 29, 2013 at 05:40PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1cinIMX

Description:

An architect of the 2010 Dodd-Frank law is accusing federal regulators of watering down new mortgage rules in the face of opposition from the housing industry.

Trulia, realtor.com see double-digit growth in traffic | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 29, 2013 at 05:39PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1dKeqgm

Description:

More visitors is also translating into more revenue

MBA Puts Out 2014 Projections, Predicts 32% Drop in Originations

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 29, 2013 at 05:20PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1cijEvX

Description:

Next year’s mortgage numbers are on track to fall off by nearly a third as the decline in refinances outpaces the slow growth of purchase originations, according to a forecast released Tuesday by the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA). MBA said it e

Zillow October 2013 Housing Forum Takeaways | Zillow Real Estate Research

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 29, 2013 at 02:29PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1dmBkYx

Description:

Zillow and the Bipartisan Policy Center hosted a housing forum in Washington, DC on Oct. 24, which focused on the housing recovery, and proposed changes to the nation’s mortgage finance system.

FHFA Index: Mortgage Rates Up in September, Loan Amounts Down

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 29, 2013 at 11:05AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1cgVMZC

Description:

The Federal Housing Finance Agency’s (FHFA) mortgage rates index rose for the fourth consecutive month in September. According to FHFA, the contract rate on the composite of all mortgage loans in September—based on an index of new mortgage con

List it or love it for elder homeowners

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 29, 2013 at 08:27AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1cgmEsU

Description:

One of my guilty pleasures known to few when I have time to kick back at home and relax is watching Home and Garden Television, known everywhere as HGTV on a cable network. Then, of all my favorite HGTV programs, the most intriguing in the past several

Oklahoma doing away with terms 'single-party broker' and 'transaction broker' | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 29, 2013 at 05:11AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1dH9bOF

Description:

Under changes to the Oklahoma Broker Relationships Act that take effect Nov. 1, real estate licensees will no longer provide services as 'single-party brokers' or 'transaction brokers,' but will have five primary duties to buyers and sellers.

Monday, October 28, 2013

JPMorgan, FHFA Settle on $5.1B Deal over Soured Loans

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 28, 2013 at 10:31PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1ceRqCu

Description:

JPMorgan Chase announced it has come to agreements to close the book on claims surrounding mortgage-backed securities (MBS) and rep and warranty repurchase claims from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) and the GSEs. In total, the bank has agreed t

House of the Week: And the Winner Is…

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 28, 2013 at 05:26PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1aCiYCg

Description:

Find out which home took top billing in the latest House of the Week poll.

MBA's Stevens Calls for Transparency, Collaboration in Washington

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 28, 2013 at 04:17PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/16F1Z33

Description:

Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) president and CEO David Stevens took the stage at the group’s 100th Annual Convention and Expo Monday morning, reflecting on the last century in housing and shining a spotlight on today’s challenges. While he

Quick Tip: Building Value for Twitter Followers | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 28, 2013 at 03:08PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1930OsV

Description:

Quick Tip: Building Value for Twitter Followers Inman News Staff Writershare this article Oct 28, 2013 How can you make the most out of Twitter in just a few minutes a day? Is it possible? Katie Lance has quick tips to help you build value for your Twitter followers.Article continues belowAdvertise…

Six Ways to Ensure Qualified Borrowers Can Get Mortgages

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 28, 2013 at 01:00PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1aBtHx2

Description:

A new paper raises concerns that mortgage lending standards — after becoming dangerously lax during the housing bubble — could now lock out qualified entry-level homeowners.

DocuTech Integrates Veri-Tax Verification Solutions

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 28, 2013 at 10:04AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1926JP2

Description:

Docutech Integrates Veri-Tax Verification Solutions DocuTech Corp., a compliance and documentation technology company headquartered in Idaho, has partnered with Veri-Tax to automate the 4506-T IRS verification process in ConformX, DocuTech’s flagshi

Halloween is not a scary school activity

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 28, 2013 at 08:11AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1dDdKJC

Description:

Hundreds of superheroes, cowboys, and monsters celebrated Halloween this past week in community parades across Chester County, including West Chester, Downingtown, Kennett Square and Coatesville.

Another FBI seizure keeps bitcoin on a roller coaster ride | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 28, 2013 at 03:06AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1dCavC9

Description:

Another FBI seizure keeps bitcoin on a roller coaster rideshare this Oct 25, 2013 Bitcoin may be the next big thing after social media, but the digital currency isn’t the most stable place to park your money, thanks to ongoing seizures by law enforcement officials and regulations being imposed here…

Sunday, October 27, 2013

Pa Nature Journeys: What is important come winter?

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 27, 2013 at 07:49AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1ddML4B

Description:

This is the time of year many nature enthusiasts start paying attention to items falling from trees. I am referring particularly to acorns, beechnuts, maple seeds, pinecones, Osage oranges and other things that help feed or provide cover for wildlife.

Saturday, October 26, 2013

North Alabama MLS takes control of listing syndication | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 26, 2013 at 03:06AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19GskMt

Description:

North Alabama Multiple Listing Service, which serves more than 3,000 agents belonging to seven North Alabama Realtor associations, is pioneering a first-of-its-kind distribution platform by taking control of syndicating its more than 14,300 listings to third-party portals.

Friday, October 25, 2013

New Business at Freddie Mac Falls to 1 1/2-Year Low

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 25, 2013 at 07:28PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1c5gmw3

Description:

September marked the third straight month of declining business for Freddie Mac, with purchases and issuances coming in at their lowest level in almost a year and a half. Freddie Mac’s total mortgage portfolio shrank at an annualized rate of 4.3 per

Fay Servicing Launches Program to Transition Originators into Servicing

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 25, 2013 at 01:14PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1c4jsR3

Description:

Fay Servicing, a Chicago-based special servicer, announced the launch of an initiative to create strategic partnerships with mortgage lenders and help train originators for careers in servicing.

Millennials adore pets and nearly 30 percent have been forced to move back in with their parents...

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 25, 2013 at 08:52AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/17ifqo3

Description:

Millennials adore pets and nearly 30 percent have been forced to move back in with their parentsshare this Oct 25, 2013 Millennials are a tough nut to crack.But a new report seems to make one thing clear: They really like pets.In a study that polled well over 1 million people from September 2011 to…

http://bit.ly/18Sk8Jx

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 25, 2013 at 07:19AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/18Sk8Jx

Description:

Thursday, October 24, 2013

5 things to know about home security systems

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 24, 2013 at 09:47PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/18R42j9

Description:

You have more options for boosting your home security -- using a cable, Internet or traditional home protection provider, a mobile phone app, and even an automated dimmer switch.

Consumer Bureau Sues Kentucky Real Estate Law Firm

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 24, 2013 at 08:01PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1d49Ab1

Description:

A small Kentucky real estate law firm has found itself the latest target in renewed federal scrutiny of referrals in the housing industry.

BofA, Mairone Found Liable in Mortgage Fraud Case

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 24, 2013 at 06:24PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1d3QKAF

Description:

After hearing arguments for a month in a Manhattan federal court, a 10-person jury found Bank of American liable for one charge of fraud involving high-risk mortgages originated by Countrywide and then sold to the GSEs. Also found liable for fraud was Reb

http://www.inman.com/wire/jury-finds-minneapolis-lawyer-liable-for-real-estate-fraud-in-sec-suit/

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 24, 2013 at 05:39PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1afh6xo

Description:

DeMarco: No Mortgage Limit Declines Before Spring 2014

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 24, 2013 at 04:02PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1alH7Nr

Description:

Federal officials will delay any reduction in the maximum size of home-mortgage loans eligible for backing by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac until next spring at the earliest amid heavy resistance from the real-estate industry and many lawmakers in Congress.

Report: Housing Inventory Fell in September

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 24, 2013 at 02:08PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/17fxQG6

Description:

The number of homes listed for sale dropped slightly in September but a growing number of housing markets are witnessing higher levels of for-sale inventory compared with one year ago.

Mortgage Rates Plunge to Post-Summer Lows

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 24, 2013 at 12:11PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/17fcJ6V

Description:

Freddie Mac released Thursday its Primary Mortgage Market Survey, which shows the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) falling to an average rate of 4.13 percent (0.8 point) for the week ending October 24, down from 4.28 percent and the lowest level in about

West Bradford officials hear zoning change options

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 24, 2013 at 07:03AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/18Ouudb

Description:

WEST BRADFORD – Consultants made a presentation Tuesday of potential amendments to township zoning ordinances and the comprehensive plan regarding multi-family and mobile homes.

Platinum Data Rolls Out Three-Tier Scoring for RealView Solution

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 24, 2013 at 05:54AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1acDXtw

Description:

Platinum Data Solutions, a technology provider specializing in collateral evaluation and quality, has launched all-new upgraded scoring functionality for RealView, its configurable engine that processes and analyzes appraisals for compliance and completen

Stik offers Facebook-authenticated agent reviews | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 24, 2013 at 05:39AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/18Ogro2

Description:

Stik is offering agents a place to distinguish themselves with social media-authenticated client reviews.

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Private Island Off the Coast of Cape Cod Hits the Market

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 23, 2013 at 06:38PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1bXGWXY

Description:

A 10-acre private island off the coast of Cape Cod has hit the market for $8.695 million.

Broker holds ‘Extreme Home Makeover Lighting Contest’ on Facebook | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 23, 2013 at 05:23PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1ahNktN

Description:

Broker holds ‘Extreme Home Makeover Lighting Contest’ on Facebookshare this Oct 23, 2013 First Team Real Estate, which claims to be the largest independent brokerage in Southern California, is offering one lucky family the chance to deck out their home with enough lights to bling out the average nei...

Real-Estate News: San Francisco Condo Plan Starts a Rumble

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 23, 2013 at 02:16PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1bX1eRq

Description:

Here is a look at real-estate news from Wednesday's WSJ, including the Property Report.

Mortgage Application Volumes Return to Decline

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 23, 2013 at 11:09AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1cXvegU

Description:

The Mortgage Bankers Association’s (MBA) Weekly Mortgage Applications Survey shows loan application volume fell a seasonally adjusted 0.6 percent for the week ending October 18. After backing back up for the last few weeks, the Refinance Index stumb

Orton providing some hope in the middle

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 23, 2013 at 06:47AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1bVHkpZ

Description:

PHILADELPHIA — Fresh off Monday’s game and a flight that landed here early Tuesday, one would figure that 76ers coach Brett Brown would go easy on his guys. Uhh … it didn’t exactly work out that way.

How the heck do you build relationships and network at Real Estate Connect, anyway? | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 23, 2013 at 05:01AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1a8cB7T

Description:

Hear what Rebecca Jensen, president and CEO of UtahRealEstate.com, has learned over the years about building relationships and networking at the Real Estate Connect conference.

FHA Reform Is Just as Important as GSE Reform

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 23, 2013 at 04:55AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/17aC8OV

Description:

While the government works toward GSE reform, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods (KBW), a financial services provider; says reform for the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) should also be a top concern. While FHA reform has been discussed, it has clearly played a

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Bank Regulators Assure Lenders on Mortgage Standards

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 22, 2013 at 07:19PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1cUEEtF

Description:

Federal bank regulators on Tuesday sought to assure lenders that stricter mortgage standards set to kick in next year won't lead to government discrimination allegations.

Employment Shows ‘Missing Households’ Still Weigh on Housing

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 22, 2013 at 04:26PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1a4Az3E

Description:

Today’s jobs report shows construction employment is up strongly, but in many other ways the report was bad for housing.

Feds: New Rules Not Expected to Interfere with Fair Lending Compliance

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 22, 2013 at 04:25PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1794ol8

Description:

Five federal agencies issued Tuesday a statement assuring creditors that they do not run the risk of being found in violation of fair lending laws should they choose to only originate qualified mortgages (QM) as defined earlier in the year. With creditors

Wouldn't you love to represent that investor you sold the property to when they're ready to...

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 22, 2013 at 03:52PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19sqzCe

Description:

RES.net, which offers a real estate transaction communication and listing platform, has teamed up with a national asset management company to launch a service that allows real estate agents to represent a property twice. Dubbed "The Boomerang Project," the service allows agents to submit properties…

Housing Construction Gains Not Translating to Much Hiring

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 22, 2013 at 01:32PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1cTx2rr

Description:

The housing sector continues to be unable to translate strong growth into larger job gains.

September Unemployment Rate at 7.2%, Job Growth Still Weak

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 22, 2013 at 10:12AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1dezPhy

Description:

The unemployment rate edged down to 7.2 percent in September as the economy added 148,000 jobs, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) revealed in its monthly Employment Situation Report. The report, released weeks late as a result of the partial government

Existing-home sales slipped in September, affordability at 5-year low | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 22, 2013 at 03:07AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1aavgl7

Description:

Existing-home sales declined 1.9 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.29 million in September from 5.39 million in August, NAR reported.

Monday, October 21, 2013

20% of Today's Loans Not QM Compliant

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 21, 2013 at 09:45PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/18ErjEQ

Description:

ComplianceEase reviewed the loans audited through its ComplianceAnalyzer, a loan auditing software, to determine what percentage of current loans would meet the new qualified mortgage (QM) criteria. According to its findings, one in five of the loans orig

House of the Week: And the Winner Is…

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 21, 2013 at 05:16PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1a0BdPD

Description:

Find out which home took top billing in the latest reader poll.

MISMO Committee Elects New Chairman

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 21, 2013 at 03:34PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1bQdByr

Description:

The Residential Standards Governance Committee of the Mortgage Industry Standards Maintenance Organization (MISMO) has elected Randy Gilster as its chairman.

Hunter Huntington Grey

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 21, 2013 at 01:02PM:

Fan of the week is... Hunter Huntington Grey! Congratulations!! To get picked as the next fan of the week, post on my wall or comment/like other posts and you may just get picked.

---

Source:

http://fanpageapps.com/126562457492574

Description:

Fan of the week is... Hunter Huntington Grey! Congratulations!! To get picked as the next fan of the week, post on my wall or comment/like other posts and you may just get picked.

Real-Estate News: Condos Are Going Back Up for Sale

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 21, 2013 at 12:50PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/19ZPTi9

Description:

Here is a look at real-estate news from the weekend and today in the WSJ:

Creative Idea

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Roses

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Alabama and Florida St. top first BCS standings

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 21, 2013 at 06:19AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1bOnQ6w

Description:

Alabama and Florida State hold the top two spots in the first BCS standings of the season. Oregon was a close third behind second-place Florida State.

Sunday, October 20, 2013

Settlement Monitor Releases Update on Servicers' Progress

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 20, 2013 at 02:37PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19WBvHk

Description:

Joseph A. Smith, the monitor overseeing fulfillment efforts put forward by each servicer involved in the National Mortgage Settlement, has issued a report on their progress satisfying consumer relief obligations outlined in the agreement. Smith’s re

Mom-centric fitness centers are taking off

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 20, 2013 at 06:04AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1d7DuNY

Description:

The other women in class curled dumbbells as they lunged. But Lindsay Macaleer put down her weights and instead gently rocked her double stroller to soothe her 2-year-old and 10-week-old sons.

Friday, October 18, 2013

Despite Mortgage Concerns, Hispanics Likely to Provide Most Demand

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 18, 2013 at 06:50PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19ReRjH

Description:

Despite a decline in homeownership rates since the recession, Hispanics are even more likely to view homeownership favorably than the general population, according to Fannie Mae. The downside is that Hispanics are also more likely to anticipate difficulti

Prudential Prime Real Estate signs up for iHomefinder IDX solution | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 18, 2013 at 05:57PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/16VG2el

Description:

Prudential Prime Real Estate signs up for iHomefinder IDX solutionshare this Oct 18, 2013 Pennsylvania-based brokerage Prudential Prime Real Estate has signed up for iHomefinder’s Internet Data Exchange (IDX) solution, which provides leads to agents and a property organizer and branded email alerts…

Apothecary Jars How to make it: Prime everything except the clear jars and spray them with a combination of black matte and black stone spray paint. Adhere all the pieces with a heavy glue to create the look of vintage apothecary jars on stands. Dress with labels and fill with creepy items of your choice.

Apothecary Jars How to make it: Prime everything except the clear jars and spray them with a combination of black matte and black stone spray paint. Adhere all the pieces with a heavy glue to create the look of vintage apothecary jars on stands. Dress with labels and fill with creepy items </a>… <a href= Read the rest

Dream Kitchen

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Small Kitchen Design

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

New Chief Economist to Step in At MBA

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 18, 2013 at 01:02PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19Y3Hvo

Description:

The Mortgage Bankers Association’s (MBA) Mike Fratantoni has been appointed chief economist following the departure of Jay Brinkmann.

Amazing Kitchen!!

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Giant Spider Web What you’ll need: Yarn, tape, scissors, toy spider How to make it: Pick an indoor or outdoor spot for the web. Then start to build it by taping ends of the yarn to the wall, first in an X shape, and then building it out with crisscross lines. Last, place a big vertical strand from the ceiling down to the bottom of your web, laying it on top of the other strings so it pops out. To make the web rings, cut a very long strand of yarn for each section, fold it in half and start the ring with a simple hitch knot. Loop the yard around each arm. Don’t worry about being too precise. When you get back to beginning, tie the end with a knot, cut off the excess, and start over on the next ring. Continue to make as many rings as you like. Deck with handmade or store-bought spiders to finish.

Spooky Mirror What you’ll need: An old-looking mirror, a razor blade, glossy black spray paint, and an antique portrait from on an old book, newspaper, scissors, tape How to make it: Take the mirror apart, removing the glass from the frame, and cut an austere portrait from an old book to fit the shape of the glass. Scrape off some of the coating on the back of the mirror just enough for the image to show through when you tape it to the back. Spray the frame with black paint and reassemble.

Glow Stick Lanterns What you’ll need: Glow sticks, scissors and jar How to make it: Grab some glow sticks — in any color, or a combination of colors — then cut off the ends, and dump the non-toxic contents into an old jar. Shake the jar to coat the sides. Add a bit of water to the jar to prolong the glow.

Coatesville school officials sighted at courthouse

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 18, 2013 at 05:31AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1d1IyDE

Description:

WEST CHESTER — Several Coatesville Area School District administrators and one school board member appeared Thursday at the Chester County Justice Center amid reports that an investigative grand jury has convened in the wake of the district’s ongoing te

Why has Curaytor stopped taking new customers for the rest of the year? | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 18, 2013 at 05:29AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19PaKVj

Description:

Chris Smith, one of the real estate industry's most well-known hustlers, has decided to put the sales brakes on his full-service real estate digital marketing startup Curaytor he and partner Jimmy Mackin launched in January to focus on the firm's existing 65 customers.

Thursday, October 17, 2013

Laundry Room Idea

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Baby crib made from PVC tube

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Balcony Design Idea

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Fannie Downgrades Forecasts in Response to Consumer Sentiment

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 17, 2013 at 05:53PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1bD9JRu

Description:

Overall, Fannie’s outlook is largely unchanged from the previous forecast, although fiscal uncertainties associated with the federal government shutdown, the protracted negotiations to raise the debt ceiling, and the timing of the Federal Reserve

Ideas of what plastic bottles can do

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Vanity from an old dresser

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

DIY Office Desk Stand

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Buying a House in Las Vegas? Check the Stock Market First

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 17, 2013 at 12:05PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/16R6lSX

Description:

When stock prices go up, housing soon follows. Just like school districts and mortgage rates can influence the housing market, so too can stock prices, according to an analysis by national real-estate brokerage Redfin.

Mortgage Rates Bounce as Washington Brokers Budget Deal

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 17, 2013 at 11:39AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19Mwgda

Description:

Mortgage rates broke their streak of weekly declines, climbing this week as the federal budget deadline approached. Freddie Mac released Thursday its weekly Primary Mortgage Market Survey, showing the average 30-year fixed rate at 4.28 percent (0.7 point)

HomeAway opens up network to property managers | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 17, 2013 at 08:01AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19LOCLz

Description:

HomeAway launches a property management referral network and a pay-per-booking feature that will make it easier for property managers to use the platform.

School programs receive funding from donations

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 17, 2013 at 05:18AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1bB45iz

Description:

EAST CALN – Downingtown district programs at the high school level will be benefited by donations from local businesses.

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Report: Market Makes Strides Toward Equilibrium

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 16, 2013 at 11:06PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/198Zjsp

Description:

The once-volatile housing market is making strides toward equilibrium, according to a new report from Realtor.com. However, the report finds patchy progress across the country. In September, about 1.9 million properties were listed for sale in the United

Real-Estate Prices Not (Yet) Affected by the Shutdown

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 16, 2013 at 06:03PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/198kJ9a

Description:

Real-estate asking prices have been largely unaffected by the government shutdown according to a post by Trulia Chief Economist Jed Kolko.

Brokers launching 'big initiative' to address MLS concerns | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 16, 2013 at 05:54PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1cW62dr

Description:

The Realty Alliance's board of directors and stockholders has voted to take the next steps to advance an unspecified initiative addressing brokers' concerns about MLSs, but the group has decided to remain mum on the particulars.

Builder Confidence Suffers Another Setback

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 16, 2013 at 04:51PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19JFYx2

Description:

Builder confidence fell again in October but remained north of neutral, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) reported Wednesday in its Housing Market Index (HMI) report. Despite declining for the second straight month, the index has hovered ab

Real-Estate News: Housing Gloom Lifts in Detroit Suburbs

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 16, 2013 at 01:39PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/19QlDb8

Description:

Here is a look at real-estate news from Wednesday's WSJ, including the Property Report:

Budget Battles Hit Home for Builders

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 16, 2013 at 06:10AM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1cUnnDs

Description:

Buyers of newly built homes are being scared off by rising prices and economic uncertainty, according to the latest early look at sales activity for new homes in September.

Local marketing strategies from Homes.com's director of social media | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 16, 2013 at 05:39AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/18l17z8

Description:

Erica Campbell, director of social media for Dominion Homes Media, took the marketing services company by storm when she joined it in 2004. Her extensive knowledge and passion for the endless potential of social media marketing helped her climb the ranks, and Campbell oversees social media strategy…

Girls Tennis: Conestoga falls to Methacton in district championship match

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 16, 2013 at 05:00AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1cUdgi6

Description:

DOWNINGTOWN - Lauren Simeone raised her arms and jumped in triumph. The senior could not believe what she and the Methacton High School girls tennis team had just achieved.

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Monthly Price Gains Continue to Pump the Brakes

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 15, 2013 at 10:07PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19NAumQ

Description:

On a monthly basis, home prices rose 0.6 percent in August, according to FNC’s Residential Price index (RPI), a measure of price changes in the country’s 100 large metropolitan areas. On a yearly basis, the increase is 5.3 percent. The monthly

Shadow Inventory: The Zombie Meme That Won’t Die

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 15, 2013 at 05:59PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1bw9xmN

Description:

Like a zombie that keeps coming back from the dead, news reports continue to suggest there’s a large “shadow” inventory of potential foreclosures threatening to sink the housing market. There’s just one problem: the data doesn’t show it.

Loss in Revenues Drags Down Citi's Q3 Earnings

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 15, 2013 at 03:54PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1cpW01d

Description:

According to Citi’s quarterly earnings summary for Q3, Global Consumer Banking (GCB) revenues fell 7 percent year-over-year to $9.2 billion as significantly lower refinancing activity and continued spread compression globally more than offset the on

House comes back with debt-ceiling plan that ‘will never pass the Senate’ | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 15, 2013 at 02:02PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1cpzGVv

Description:

House comes back with debt-ceiling plan that ‘will never pass the Senate’ Oct 15, 2013 House Republicans have announced a debt-ceiling plan that would reopen the government until Jan. 15 and lift the debt ceiling until Feb. 7.But the proposed legislation would also delay for two years a tax on medic...

Kelly mum on who will start at QB for Eagles

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 15, 2013 at 04:46AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19KcMI0

Description:

PHILADELPHIA — Chip Kelly couldn’t say it, wouldn’t say it, didn’t say it.

Monday, October 14, 2013

House of the Week: And the Winner Is…

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 14, 2013 at 09:34PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/19J4D6K

Description:

Find out which home took top billing in the latest House of the Week poll.

Multifamily Lending Increases 33% in 2012

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 14, 2013 at 09:12PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1cPOS0W

Description:

Multifamily lenders provided a total of $146.1 billion in new mortgages for apartments with five or more units—a 33 percent increase from 2011, according to data from the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA). In many ways we were in a golden age of mu

Semi-Detached, Colonial – PARKESBURG, PA This gorgeous and cozy home has 3 beds, 1.5 baths, and approximately 1,800 square feet, with central air and affordable gas heating. The kitchen is complete with granite counter-tops, as well as a top-notch stove and oven. As we walk in the main entrance, from the front porch, we find the sitting room, living room, dining room and kitchen, as well as a half bathroom. Dining room provides exit to a newly renovated side patio. As we walk up the stairs we find an open “den”, two bedrooms, and a newly renovated bathroom. Square footage includes third floor bedroom. There is plenty of storage with the full basement. Included also are the oven, refrigerator, microwave, and washer and dryer. 610 W 2nd Ave is conveniently located within walking distance of Minch Park, the Parkesburg Public Library, and 1st Avenue businesses. http://ow.ly/pNUnZ

Semi-Detached, Colonial - PARKESBURG, PA This gorgeous and cozy home has 3 beds, 1.5 baths, and approximately 1,800 square feet, with central air and affordable gas heating. The kitchen is complete with granite counter-tops, as well as a top-notch stove and oven. As we walk in the main entrance, from the front porch, we find </a>… <a href= Read the rest

Freddie Mac Completes First Multifamily Bulk Loan Sale

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 14, 2013 at 02:58PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19HO0IG

Description:

Freddie Mac has announced the completion of its first multifamily bulk loan sale to a global real estate investment firm. An affiliate of Colony Capital purchased the GSE’s portfolio of 27 performing loans with an unpaid principal balance of $195 mi

Home Sales, Prices Slowing in Bust-and-Boom Markets

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 14, 2013 at 02:09PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1brPENS

Description:

The sharp home-price rally in some of the hardest-hit housing markets is likely to fade in the coming months amid a pullback in investor purchases and steady increases in the number of homes listed for sale.

Mike Caudill

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 14, 2013 at 01:04PM:

Fan of the week is... Mike Caudill! Congratulations!! To get picked as the next fan of the week, post on my wall or comment/like other posts and you may just get picked.

---

Source:

http://fanpageapps.com/126562457492574

Description:

Fan of the week is... Mike Caudill! Congratulations!! To get picked as the next fan of the week, post on my wall or comment/like other posts and you may just get picked.

Real-Estate News: Home for Sale, With Freebies

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 14, 2013 at 12:38PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1cOy6iS

Description:

Here is a look at real-estate news from the weekend and today in the WSJ.

Realty Alliance: don’t expect ‘huge’ announcement today | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 14, 2013 at 12:21PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1cOuSvL

Description:

Realty Alliance: don’t expect ‘huge’ announcement today Oct 14, 2013 The Realty Alliance (TRA), which issued a stern warning at the Council of Multiple Listing Services’ national meeting on Oct. 4 to MLSs about their business practices that competed with brokers, says the industry shouldn’t hold its...

Bucks County’s Lawsuits hold CD Release Party at Johnny Brenda’s

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 14, 2013 at 04:33AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19FAB3U

Description:

A lot of bands perform at John and Peter’s in New Hope as they’re starting their climb to national recognition. And, a lot of already established bands continue to play at the popular club on the banks of the Delaware River because it’s a great place to

Sunday, October 13, 2013

West Chester Elks hold Hoop Shoot

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 13, 2013 at 04:20AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1cJQut0

Description:

In-depth coverage of Features/People news. Features/People articles, photos, videos and breaking news for Chester County and the US and more.

Saturday, October 12, 2013

Amazing Halloween Lawn Display

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

That’s No Moon!

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Halloween Wreath What you’ll need: Skulls from the craft store, black feather boas, black gauze, marker, string, Styrofoam, scissors, wire, electric knife, and lights (optional) How to make it: Cut the Styrofoam board into a donut shape (you can make a perfect circle by pinning a marker to a string in the center, and following it around to draw the shape). Wrap the boa around the wreath, clipping it into place with small lengths of cut wire, bent into clips. Pin pieces of the black gauze around the wreath. Fasten the skulls where you like them, add lights if you so desire

Head in a Jar What you’ll need: Bottle, flattened printout of a face, theatrical hair, screwdriver and cork How to make it: Search Google for a “face texture map” for a flattened rendering of a face that would be applied to a 3D model. Scale the drawing and print it out. Roll it up and feed it into the jar. Then crumple paper to stuff into the center of the jar, so the face flattens against the inner surface of the glass. Add fake hair,, using a screwdriver to help arrange it strategically in the jar. Close with a cork and hot glue it shut.

Framed Art with Light-Up Eyes What you’ll need: Thrift store frame, foam board, chalkboard paint, chalk, twinkle lights, hammer, nail How to make it: Cut a foam board so it’s the same size as your frame, and then cover it with two coats of black chalkboard spray paint. Sketch trees (or any Halloween-inspired design) with chalk. Determine where you want to put your glowing eyes, and use a nail to pierce the board. Insert the tips of twinkle lights behind the canvas.

Amazing Bedroom

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Awesome Bedroom

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Members step in to save Coatesville Country Club

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 12, 2013 at 04:05AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/187g9bC

Description:

Coatesville Country Club members were celebrating this week after they kept the nearly century-old establishment from being sold at sheriff’s sale.

Do your clients search for homes by school attendance zone? | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 12, 2013 at 03:06AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19s7DCm

Description:

Onboard Informatics is now offering school attendance zone data, spelling competition for Maponics.

Friday, October 11, 2013

Master Bedroom Design

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Double Sink Bathroom Vanity

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Orange pumpkins and ghost bananas

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

SunTrust Squares Up Legacy Issues with GSEs, Federal Agencies

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 11, 2013 at 06:19PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1864TfC

Description:

SunTrust announced Thursday that it has taken further steps to clear up its mortgage problems with the government and with the GSEs. On top of an agreement reached with Freddie Mac at the end of September, SunTrust has settled with HUD, the Department of

DIY Notebook Holder

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

TIP: Double your closet space! Use pull tabs on your hangers…

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Potato Roses

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Welcome Great Pumpkin

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Mortgage Return Introduces Storefront Marketing Solution

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 11, 2013 at 12:00PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19pMtF8

Description:

Mortgage Returns, a provider of customer relationship management (CRM) technology and automated marketing solutions, has launched its new Storefront marketing solution, an enhanced feature of the company’s CRM system.

Use a normal coat rack to keep shoes off the floor

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Backyard stone bench

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Transforming bed headboards into a bench

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Streit looks to break out for Flyers

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 11, 2013 at 03:53AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1bhPusi

Description:

VOORHEES, N.J. — Mark Streit struck it rich with the Flyers last summer because they thought he could bring something that was of vital importance — mobility in the defensive zone. Someone to be counted on to help cut down mistakes in trying to move the

Thursday, October 10, 2013

Austin Realtors pull the plug on ListHub | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 11, 2013 at 12:38AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19nHNj7

Description:

The Austin Board of Realtors has voted to end the association's agreement with listing syndicator ListHub, citing concerns about unethical business practices and inaccurate listing data on consumer websites not affiliated with a Realtor trade group.

Lawmakers to DeMarco: You Can’t Reduce Loan Limits

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 10, 2013 at 11:42PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1cBPW8q

Description:

To get a sense of how difficult the process of overhauling Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will be, witness the latest kerfuffle over whether the companies’ regulator should drop the maximum loan limits.In a letter released Thursday, some 66 members of the House of Representatives—59 Democrats and 7 Repu...

JPMorgan Chase Names New CIO

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 10, 2013 at 11:29PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1c6Mznh

Description:

JPMorgan Chase will soon welcome Dana Deasy as its new CIO. He brings more than 27 years of experience to his new role.

Washington Gridlock Spells Quiet Week for Mortgage Rates

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 10, 2013 at 05:00PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19mvbZn

Description:

Fixed mortgage rates held more or less steady this week as Capitol Hill remained locked in debate over budgetary concerns. According to data in Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 4.23 percent

Mortgage Market Surviving Government Shutdown For Now

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 10, 2013 at 03:59PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1c5oFbS

Description:

What are the main ways in which the shutdown could slow housing?

Mortgage rates hardly budge amid shutdown and debt impasse | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 10, 2013 at 10:27AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19oU4FT

Description:

Mortgage rates hardly budge amid shutdown and debt impasse Oct 10, 2013 Amid the debt impasse and government shutdown, rates on 30-year fixed-rate mortgages averaged 4.23 percent with an average point of 0.7 percent for the week ending Oct. 10, up from 4.22 percent last week and 3.39 percent a year…

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Where Can the Middle Class Buy a Home?

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 10, 2013 at 12:51AM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1bdFNv2

Description:

If you’re in the middle class and want to buy a home here’s a piece of advice: Move to Ohio (if you’re not already there).

Specialty Servicers Swoop in as Big Banks Relinquish Market Share

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 09, 2013 at 09:40PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1c1QVvY

Description:

After releasing a mortgage origination forecast of $349 billion for the third quarter earlier this week, FBR Capital Markets revised its estimate to between $400 billion and $420 billion for the quarter Wednesday. FBR anticipates a rise in refinances unde

Can you guess which company's still the biggest real estate franchisor? | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 09, 2013 at 07:45PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19lK1kM

Description:

Re/Max is the largest real estate franchisor by worldwide sales volume, according to an annual ranking from the Franchise Times.

First Glances at September New-Home Sales Spark Worries

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 09, 2013 at 06:50PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1cx1PfO

Description:

The early reads on new-home sales in September don’t look good. And one housing bull sees enough of a slowdown to justify reining in her projections for the rest of this year.

Real-Estate News: Investors Turn Away From Once-Hot REITs

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 09, 2013 at 03:52PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1cwvTrX

Description:

Here is a look at real-estate news in Wednesday's WSJ, including the Property Report.

Clayton Holdings Expands Securitization Group

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 09, 2013 at 03:25PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19kNxvQ

Description:

Clayton Holdings LLC, a provider of loan due diligence, surveillance, and consulting services for the mortgage industry, announced that it has expanded its securitization group in preparation for the private market’s return.

East San Francisco Bay Realtor boards approve merger under Contra Costa Association banner |...

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 09, 2013 at 05:31AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1bYtYK9

Description:

Members of Contra Costa County associations set to vote on proposal

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

FHFA Takes Next Step in Creation of Common Securitization Platform

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 08, 2013 at 08:43PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/17U8XPR

Description:

The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) has taken the next step toward building a new common securitization platform for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac with the filing of a certificate to establish a joint venture. The certificate, filed in Delaware, establ

Real-Estate Industry Calls for Delay on Loan-Limit Decline

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 08, 2013 at 07:14PM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/19gn7LJ

Description:

The real-estate industry asked the Federal Housing Finance Agency in a letter Tuesday to delay any proposed reduction in maximum loan amount that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac can purchase.

Former Zillow broker rep Duane Fouts joins West USA Realty | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 08, 2013 at 05:29PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/17TDLAs

Description:

Former Zillow broker rep Duane Fouts joins West USA Realty Oct 8, 2013 Duane Fouts, who left his consulting position with Zillow in August after a year of leading the portal’s efforts to strengthen its relationship with brokers, has joined Phoenix-based brokerage and franchisor West USA Realty Inc.…

Should You Refinance Now?

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 08, 2013 at 03:24PM:

---

Source:

http://www.daveramsey.com/blog/should-you-refinance-now/?ectid=elp.facebook.post.10-8-2013

Description:

Can your family benefit from a refinance? A lot depends on your situation—your rate, the term on your current loan, even your reasons for refinancing.

Freddie Mac Issues Guidance on Borrowers Affected by Federal Shutdown

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 08, 2013 at 02:29PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1bVNgjo

Description:

In an effort to keep the mortgage market running as smoothly as possible, Freddie Mac issued Monday temporary guidance for lenders to continue approving loans for eligible borrowers during the federal shutdown. Dave Lowman, EVP of single-family business a

Worms on a Bun What you’ll need… Hot dogs Hamburger rolls Ketchup Additional Instructions Cut the hot dogs into thin slices and score the edges (about three cuts per slice). Boil or microwave until the slices curl like wiggly worms. Serve three or four worms to a bun. For an extra-icky touch, add a few squiggles of ketchup.

Foreclosures Recede as Housing Rebounds

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 08, 2013 at 08:59AM:

---

Source:

http://on.wsj.com/17RVE2C

Description:

The number of foreclosed homes continues to fall across the country, which is helping the U.S. housing market creep back to normal.

Old fashioned way to carve pumpkins…. Great times

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Hear what Janet Choynowski has to say about how companies create a global offering | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 08, 2013 at 05:16AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1bTO3Bp

Description:

Janet Choynowski is the founder and CEO of Immobel and Real-Buzz Group, which provides multilingual marketing and technology solutions to the real estate industry for clients that include Sotheby’s International Realty, Century 21 and more than 150 real estate professional organizations in the Unite...

Flyers fire Laviolette, name Berube new coach

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 08, 2013 at 03:07AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19bDHub

Description:

PHILADELPHIA — Flyers general manager Paul Holmgren was said to be close to firing Peter Laviolette last season, but held off and thought better of it over the offseason. In the words Monday of his two bosses, Peter Luukko and Ed Snider, Holmgren just f

Monday, October 7, 2013

Goody Bags Supplies: Paper bags, double-sided tape sheets, velvet flock, stamps, and ink pad. How-To: For candy corn, cut shapes out of double-sided tape sheet and apply to bag. Score shape into three sections. Peel backing from the first part, and add velvet flock. Repeat process with each section until complete. Stamp bags with fun phrases.

Masked Portraits: When prepping for the holiday, don’t forget to costume everyone — even folks in paintings and photos. Black construction paper, scissors, and low-tack artists’ tape were all it took to ready this blushing bride for a masquerade ball. (Other easy embellishments: red devil horns and white fangs.) Just resist the urge to disguise priceless artwork that’s not protected by glass.

Masked Portraits: When prepping for the holiday, don’t forget to costume everyone — even folks in paintings and photos. Black construction paper, scissors, and low-tack artists’ tape were all it took to ready this blushing bride for a masquerade ball. (Other easy embellishments: red devil horns and white fangs.) Just … Read the rest

Investment Firm Projects Weak Q3 for Mortgage Banks

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 07, 2013 at 07:24PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/19awUku

Description:

Investment bank FBR’s third-quarter mortgage originations estimate is $349 billion, a 29 percent decline over the quarter. The abating refinance market is a major drag on the mortgage industry, and, [w]e do not believe that there will be a strong en

Kitten Break

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Cold-calling service helps brokerages poach competitors’ agents | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 07, 2013 at 03:21PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1b4kfRn

Description:

Elite Connect guarantees clients10 agents for $25K

Modern Living

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Mortgage Rate Hikes Drain Pool of 'Refinancible' Loans

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 07, 2013 at 01:13PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/17Odd3z

Description:

According to Lender Processing Services’ data, the monthly prepayment rate—historically a good indicator of refinance activity—has dipped more than 30 percent in the months since May, with mortgage interest rates climbing nearly 100 basi

Sandor Benko

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 07, 2013 at 01:02PM:

Fan of the week is... Sandor Benko! Congratulations!! To get picked as the next fan of the week, post on my wall or comment/like other posts and you may just get picked.

---

Source:

http://fanpageapps.com/126562457492574

Description:

Fan of the week is... Sandor Benko! Congratulations!! To get picked as the next fan of the week, post on my wall or comment/like other posts and you may just get picked.

Luxury Living Room

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Sunday, October 6, 2013

Hot Dog Mummies

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Amazing playbed

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Ideas on how to recycle pallets…

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

DIY Bracelet

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

An old rake transferred into a glass holder

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

DIY Pistachios Shell Flower

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Saturday, October 5, 2013

West Chester staves off Cal to improve to 5-0

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 06, 2013 at 02:39AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1ciIiQf

Description:

WEST GOSHEN – One week after a near disastrous escape against a winless opponent, the West Chester football squad returned to its impressive ways on Saturday by outlasting a quality California (Pa.) squad, 38-31, in a key PSAC crossover battle at Farrel

Big broker group issues ominous sounding warning to MLSs | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 05, 2013 at 07:55PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1chS9Wz

Description:

Big broker group issues ominous sounding warning to MLSsNAR will revisit policy allowing MLSs to categorize public-facing MLS websites as 'basic' service Andrea V. Brambila Associate Editorshare this article Oct 5, 2013 Caveman skit image via Shutterstock.Boise, Idaho — The head of a group made up d...

Spooky Witches’ Fingers 1 cup butter, softened 1 cup confectioners’ sugar 1 egg 1 teaspoon almond extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup whole almonds 1 (.75 ounce) tube red decorating gel 1. Combine the butter, sugar, egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Beat together with an electric mixer; gradually add the flour, baking powder, and salt, continually beating; refrigerate 20 to 30 minutes. 2. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Lightly grease baking sheets. 3. Remove dough from refrigerator in small amounts. Scoop 1 heaping teaspoon at a time onto a piece of waxed paper. Use the waxed paper to roll the dough into a thin finger-shaped cookie. Press one almond into one end of each cookie to give the appearance of a long fingernail. Squeeze cookie near the tip and again near the center of each to give the impression of knuckles. You can also cut into the dough with a sharp knife at the same points to help give a more finger-like appearance. Arrange the shaped cookies on the baking sheets. 4. Bake in the preheated oven until the cookies are slightly golden in color, 20 to 25 minutes. 5. Remove the almond from the end of each cookie; squeeze a small amount of red decorating gel into the cavity; replace the almond to cause the gel to ooze out around the tip of the cookie.

Boo-tiful Wreath: Make a ghostly wreath decoration with cheap white felt ghosts and a black bow. You can spray your wreath gray or black, or leave it natural. Even sweeter: Wrap lollipops in tissues to make ghostly Halloween treats, then cover a wreath by tucking under a ribbon or attaching with glue.

Boo-tiful Wreath: Make a ghostly wreath decoration with cheap white felt ghosts and a black bow. You can spray your wreath gray or black, or leave it natural. Even sweeter: Wrap lollipops in tissues to make ghostly Halloween treats, then cover a wreath by tucking under a ribbon or attaching … Read the rest

Crafty Spider Sacks: You won’t want to dust away these Halloween cobwebs: Create chic, cheap yarn spider webs to decorate light fixtures, drape over curtains, or hang from a railing. Don’t forget to attach a tiny plastic spider to each sack.

Crafty Spider Sacks: You won’t want to dust away these Halloween cobwebs: Create chic, cheap yarn spider webs to decorate light fixtures, drape over curtains, or hang from a railing. Don’t forget to attach a tiny plastic spider to each sack.

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, … Read the rest

Forever Pumpkins: For cheap jack-o-lantern decorations that will last past Halloween, cover clean, empty jars with orange construction paper or tissue paper. Add features with black construction paper, then pop in a tea candle—with flames, or battery-operated—and watch your “pumpkin” glow.

Forever Pumpkins: For cheap jack-o-lantern decorations that will last past Halloween, cover clean, empty jars with orange construction paper or tissue paper. Add features with black construction paper, then pop in a tea candle—with flames, or battery-operated—and watch your “pumpkin” glow.

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, … Read the rest

“Under the Sea” Bathroom

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Gorgeous Bathroom Design

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

Friday, October 4, 2013

West Chester seeks crisper performance against Cal

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 05, 2013 at 02:28AM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1cfj2u6

Description:

WEST GOSHEN – Even though the team is off to its best start in 42 years, we don’t yet know if this is going to wind up being a special season for West Chester football.

Tight Credit May Cinch Further as Government Agencies Scale Back

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 04, 2013 at 10:30PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1aUiB4N

Description:

Mortgage lending remains tight compared to historical norms, and lending could tighten even further as the government takes steps to lessen its role in the market, according to a recent report by Moody’s Analytics and the Urban Institute. Reducing F

10 Things Americans Waste Money On

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 04, 2013 at 09:06PM:

---

Source:

http://www.daveramsey.com/blog/10-things-americans-waste-money-on

Description:

Straight from the Dave Ramsey team, here are 10 things that escape our attention and take our money with them.

Dream Closet

Original can be found on the Timothy J. Alexander, Long & Foster Real Estate Facebook page.… Read the rest

NYC brokers love Mayor Bloomberg | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on October 04, 2013 at 05:45PM:

---

Source:

http://bit.ly/1ce8lrX

Description:

NYC brokers love Mayor Bloomberg Oct 4, 2013 New York City’s three-term mayor, Michael Bloomberg, who will be leaving his executive position of U.S.’s most important city early next year is beloved by Big Apple brokers who say he created a booming real estate climate during his 12 years in office.By...