Making Chester County Home Buying & Selling Less Stressful: January 2014

Friday, January 31, 2014

Consumer Sentiment Index Dips in January

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 31, 2014 at 08:44PM:

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http://bit.ly/1a9aMwa

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The Surveys of Consumers’ Index of Consumer Sentiment, released jointly by Thomson Reuters and the University of Michigan’s Survey Research Center, dropped to 81.2 this month from December’s 82.5. The monthly decline stands in contrast t

Home Builder IPO Starts Low, Ends Higher

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 31, 2014 at 06:35PM:

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http://on.wsj.com/1knFK4H

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California home builder New Home Co. did well Friday on its first day of trading on the New York Stock Exchange as its stock closed at $12.20, up 10.9% from its offering price.

Company promises to reimburse clerk who was robbed

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 31, 2014 at 04:12PM:

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http://bit.ly/1kmSmZV

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POTTSTOWN — The employee of the Citgo Gas Station who had money deducted from his paycheck after the establishment was robbed twice in one week could get his money back.

FHA Expands Acceptance of e-Signatures

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 31, 2014 at 02:23PM:

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http://bit.ly/1hYPIb6

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In its ongoing bid to modernize its processes, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) has granted expanded authority to lenders to accept e-Signatures on loan documents.

Mortgage lending hits 5-year low | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 31, 2014 at 09:32AM:

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http://bit.ly/1hXlghx

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Mortgage lending hits 5-year lowshare this Jan 31, 2014 Mortgage lending fell to its lowest level in five years in the fourth quarter of 2013, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing a report released by Inside Mortgage Finance.The steep drop mostly reflects the end of a refinancing boom that reign...

Thursday, January 30, 2014

GDP Advances 3.2% in Q4

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 30, 2014 at 11:54PM:

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http://bit.ly/1bbWAAT

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The nation’s economy continued to grow in the fourth quarter, helped along by improvements in consumer spending and business investment. In its advance estimate of real gross domestic product (GDP) last quarter, the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)

Report: Majority of Lenders Putting Financial Data at Risk

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 30, 2014 at 05:46PM:

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http://bit.ly/1baQdgZ

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As companies like Target and Michaels Stores continue to take a drubbing over high-profile data breaches, a report from cybersecurity firm HALOCK Security Labs suggests mortgage lenders may not be doing enough to protect applicants’ sensitive financ

Mortgage Rates Fall as Market Indicators Weaken

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 30, 2014 at 11:34AM:

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http://bit.ly/LebUCI

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The average interest rate on the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) came down to 4.32 percent (0.7 point) for the week ending January 30, Freddie Mac reported in its Primary Mortgage Market Survey. Last week, the average 30-year rate was 4.39 percent. In a

N-Play Facebook IDX app doubles its reach to 110 MLSs | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 30, 2014 at 08:01AM:

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http://bit.ly/LdrdLW

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Ten multiple listing services have recently signed up to offer their members N-Play’s Internet Data Exchange (IDX) listings search application for agent and broker Facebook pages, bringing the total number of MLSs offering the app to 110. Those MLSs represent nearly 700,000 agents and are the careta...

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Commentary: A Response to the State of the Union Address

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 29, 2014 at 11:06PM:

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http://bit.ly/1kasHn2

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Instead of bringing America together and setting us forth on the path towards economic growth and prosperity, what President Obama did in his State of the Union address was offer of the same misguided, go-it-alone ideas we’ve heard before, as oppose

NYC’s Warburg Realty gobbles up Rubicon Property | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 29, 2014 at 06:33PM:

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http://bit.ly/1b69qQW

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NYC’s Warburg Realty gobbles up Rubicon Propertyshare this Jan 29, 2014 New York City-based brokerage Warburg Realty has acquired the 12-agent firm Rubicon Property and its prime Upper West Side office.The acquisition establishes a fourth office for the long-standing Manhattan brokerage, brings its…

Fed Officials Agree to Continue Tapering Asset Purchases

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 29, 2014 at 04:22PM:

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http://bit.ly/1hO8AcW

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In its first meeting this year, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) voted to once again cut back on the Fed’s bond-buying program. Starting in February, the Federal Reserve will scale its monthly purchases to a combined $65 billion, down $10 bi

Downingtown-based developer Jack Loew dies

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 29, 2014 at 03:56PM:

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http://bit.ly/1iMsJ6B

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Prominent Chester County developer Jack Loew of J. Loew & Associates Inc. died Wednesday morning.

Real-Estate News: Silverstein Seeks New Debt Deal for WTC

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 29, 2014 at 01:25PM:

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http://on.wsj.com/LoOZW0

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

Remarketing keeps your listings, brand top of mind as consumers get closer to purchase | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 29, 2014 at 06:03AM:

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http://bit.ly/1k6aYNp

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How to use Google remarketing to boost your SEO and attract viewers to your website.

Obama Silent on Housing in State of the Union

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 29, 2014 at 03:46AM:

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http://bit.ly/1k5D8IC

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In his speech Tuesday night, the president only directly mentioned housing twice: first to describe the market as rebounding and again to demand from Congress legislation that protects the taxpayers from footing the bill for a housing crisis ever again. W

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

LendingQB Launches Consumer Web Portal

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 28, 2014 at 09:36PM:

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http://bit.ly/1fuNQFF

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LendingQB unveiled on Monday its latest innovation: a consumer Web portal designed to keep pipelines flowing with lucrative leads.

Coldwell Banker acquires Sun City, Ariz. brokerage, Ken Meade Realty | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 28, 2014 at 05:28PM:

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http://bit.ly/1nfmatI

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Realogy subsidiary NRT's Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Arizona now has nearly 1,600 real estate professionals working out of 28 offices with the acquisition of Ken Meade Realty in Sun City, the company said today.

Gorgeous Laundry Room! Do you like? YES or NO!!!

Gorgeous Laundry Room!

Do you like? YES or NO!!!

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

Page not found

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 28, 2014 at 03:47PM:

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http://bit.ly/1k2OfBW

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

Demand for Adjustable-Rate Loans Expected to Rise

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 28, 2014 at 03:00PM:

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http://bit.ly/1k2AS4H

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As fixed interest rates continue on their upward path, initial-period rates on adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) remain near historic lows—a stat the Freddie Mac anticipates will factor into borrowing decisions in the year ahead. As longer-term inter

Zillow Case Shiller November 2013 Comparison | Zillow Real Estate Research

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 28, 2014 at 02:52PM:

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http://bit.ly/LkWcXc

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Today, the S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices showed that the non-seasonally adjusted (NSA) October 10- and 20-City Composites each rose 13.6 percent 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 20-City Compo...

Staircase with Floating Treads

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

Rustic Outdoor Patio

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

Zillow Q3 2013 Affordability and Interest Rates | Zillow Real Estate Research

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 28, 2014 at 01:23PM:

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http://bit.ly/1hJhWql

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As mortgage rates have risen above 4%, buying a home has become less affordable as monthly payments are rising due to interest rates and home value appreciation. At Zillow, we measure affordability by looking at how much of a person’s monthly income is spent on a mortgage payment. To that end, we me...

5 Things You Need to Know About Home Prices - Five Things - WSJ

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 28, 2014 at 11:29AM:

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

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The S&P/Case-Shiller home price index showed that home prices have been on a tear during 2013, driven by more buyers chasing a shrinking supply of homes for sale -- and critically, chasing fewer distressed properties.

Peoplework: a vision for the future of work | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 28, 2014 at 05:17AM:

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http://bit.ly/1iFUgGK

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Dotloop CEO Austin Allison discusses the core principles that govern and define the most successful businesses today.

Home Prices Increase 0.3% in November

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 28, 2014 at 02:14AM:

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http://bit.ly/M8eniS

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Home prices edged up again in November as markets across the nation climbed a little closer to their pre-crash peaks—and others pushed up past them. The latest Home Price Index (HPI) report from Black Knight Financial Services (BKFS) shows prices ri

Monday, January 27, 2014

Cold Spell Heats Up House Searches in Warm-Weather Markets

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 27, 2014 at 07:47PM:

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http://on.wsj.com/M72AS1

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The colder the temperature, the more house hunters seek out warm-weather locales like Miami and Phoenix, says Jed Kolko, chief economist at real-estate website Trulia.

Downtown Manhattan Penthouse Sells for a Record $50.9 Million

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 27, 2014 at 04:58PM:

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http://on.wsj.com/M6n2Co

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A penthouse in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood has closed for $50.9 million. According to the listing agent, the deal sets a new record for the most expensive home sale downtown.

The 5 W's of working with international buyers | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 27, 2014 at 04:18PM:

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http://bit.ly/1jYda9U

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Caron Ling of Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers, Eleonore Rojas, vice president of partnerships and product integration, Move Inc., and Jonathan Cooper, vice president of operations, Macdonald Realty Group, discuss "The 5 W's of Working with International Buyers" -- the who, what, where, when and why…

Wow! Amazing Rustic Bedroom!

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

Columnists ID issues in Pa. governor’s race

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 27, 2014 at 03:36PM:

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http://bit.ly/LgH2lQ

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Pennsylvania stands at the edge of an historical moment. For the first time in modern state history, a large-field of competitive gubernatorial candidates awaits an impending spring primary battle that will allow one of them to take on an incumbent go

FDIC Reports Second Bank Collapse of 2014

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 27, 2014 at 01:06PM:

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http://bit.ly/M5pHw7

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FDIC announced the closure of an Oklahoma bank over the weekend, marking the first insured collapse in the Sooner State in more than a year and a half.

Beautiful Kitchen Decor!

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

Stunning spirals in pebble pathway! Don’t you think?

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

Quieter, wiser heads are worried about our economy | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 27, 2014 at 03:06AM:

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http://bit.ly/M3ckwq

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You'd never know from the media happy-talkers, certain that quantitative easing was an excessive stimulant, but the drop in 10-year Treasury rates says that quieter, wiser heads are worried about our economy with the Fed pulling back. If QE was good for the economy, its absence is not.

Sunday, January 26, 2014

Grammys 2014: Follow the show live!

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 26, 2014 at 03:18PM:

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http://bit.ly/1fofsMD

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Are you watching the 56th Annual Grammy awards on Jan. 26?

Amazing Kitchen Design!

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

Great Tip

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

Saturday, January 25, 2014

Cat Paradise

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Police say 3 dead after shooting at Maryland mall

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 25, 2014 at 03:00PM:

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http://bit.ly/1iy3rJg

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COLUMBIA, Md. — Someone armed with a gun opened fire at a busy shopping mall in suburban Baltimore on Saturday. Three people died, including the person believed to be the shooter, police said.

Home sales: Best year since 2006

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 25, 2014 at 02:17PM:

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http://bit.ly/1ixXtIs

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Home sale rose in December, taking sales for the year above 5 million mark.

Beautiful Staircase with Beautiful Lighting

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

Modern Bathroom Spa Design

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

Friday, January 24, 2014

Tight Inventory, Steep Price Gains Begin to Wane

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 24, 2014 at 10:11PM:

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http://bit.ly/1ivVt3i

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Last year’s housing market was defined by two distinguishing factors: low inventory and rising prices; but both trends began to ease at the end of the year, according to the latest RE/MAX National Housing Report, which tracks Multiple Listing Servic

Dog in a Dog

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

Secondary Business Increases at Freddie Mac

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 24, 2014 at 04:00PM:

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http://bit.ly/KWhFW2

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Freddie Mac’s mortgage business grew—albeit slowly—in December, capping the year with an overall negative growth rate. According to the GSE’s December volume summary, its total mortgage portfolio grew at an annualized rate of 0.4 p

California homeowners face hefty fines for brown lawns | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 24, 2014 at 03:14PM:

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http://bit.ly/1e1URzd

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California homeowners face hefty fines for brown lawnsshare this Jan 24, 2014 Although California Gov. Jerry Brown declared a statewide drought emergency last week, one homeowners association in the San Francisco Bay Area is issuing citations to homeowners who fail to maintain their green lawns.John...

Gaining visibility at work

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 24, 2014 at 02:46PM:

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http://bit.ly/LRwRnE

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She is everywhere.I pick up my snail mail and, there she is in a glossy, full-color magazine.

Airy and Cozy Rustic Living Room Design

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

Fabulous Bathroom Design

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

Crye-Leike pulls one-fourth of its listings from Zillow, Trulia | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 24, 2014 at 03:05AM:

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http://bit.ly/1fgYzTM

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Citing concerns about the accuracy and freshness of listings and ads for competing agents on Zillow and Trulia, Crye-Leike Real Estate Services says it's pulling the roughly 3,000 listings the brokerage represents in the Memphis, Tenn., region from the two sites today.

Thursday, January 23, 2014

FHFA Records Price Gains for 22nd Straight Month

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 23, 2014 at 08:32PM:

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http://bit.ly/1c8OucS

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The Federal Housing Finance Agency’s (FHFA) monthly House Price Index (HPI) slowed its upward march substantially in November, rising only 0.1 percent compared to October’s 0.5 percent. November’s increase marked the 22nd straight monthl

Zillow Home Value Forecast for December 2014 | Zillow Real Estate Research

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 23, 2014 at 05:52PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1c8marc

Description:

Use this tool to see where home values in your community are headed over the next 12 months, from December 2013 through December 2014.

Gorgeous Stone Bathroom Design Idea

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

First Guaranty Mortgage Names Chief Strategy Officer

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 23, 2014 at 02:19PM:

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http://bit.ly/1jFn4ge

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First Guaranty Mortgage Corporation (FGMC), based in Virginia, announced the appointment of Chief Strategy Officer Gretchen Malatesta.

Phoenixville firefighter suffers heart attack while battling fire

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 23, 2014 at 02:09PM:

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http://bit.ly/LMluNM

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PHOENXIVILLE — While battling an early morning fire on Thursday, one responding firefighter suffered a heart attack, according to the Phoenixville Fire Department.

Eco Toilet: Innovative Water Saving Concept

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

planetRE signs up two brokerages for compensation software | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 23, 2014 at 09:16AM:

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http://bit.ly/LL0zdT

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Real estate software provider planetRE has signed up real estate companies Engel & Volkers California and Intero Real Estate Services in Texas for its compensation management platform, planetRE Money.

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Recovery Expected to Enter 'Middle Innings' in 2014

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 23, 2014 at 01:20AM:

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http://bit.ly/1jCvzsG

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While the housing market is still far from normal, it is inching that way, according to a report released Thursday from Zillow. Last year’s skyrocketing home price appreciation, frenzied demand from investors, and high tide of negative equity are al

Zillow 2013 Q4 Real Estate Market Report | Zillow Real Estate Research

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 23, 2014 at 12:42AM:

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http://bit.ly/LJ59ta

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Zillow’s fourth quarter Real Estate Market Reports show home values increased 1.4% from the third quarter of 2013 to the fourth quarter of 2014 to $169,100 (Figure 1). 2013 closed on a strong note with the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) up 6.4% from December 2012 levels (Figure 2). On a monthly basi...

International Document Services Names VP of Business Development

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 22, 2014 at 07:05PM:

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http://bit.ly/LI04RK

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Mortgage document preparation vendor International Document Services, Inc. (IDS), announced the hiring of Daniel Miller as VP of business development.

Re/Max founder Dave Liniger: 'Go live your dream' | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 22, 2014 at 06:37PM:

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http://bit.ly/LHTISD

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In a one-on-one interview with Inman News Publisher Brad Inman at Real Estate Connect New York City, Re/Max LLC co-founder and Chairman Dave Liniger had these words of wisdom for entrepreneurs looking to make a splash in the real estate industry: "Go live your dream," by setting goals, developing a…

Happenings

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 22, 2014 at 01:20PM:

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http://bit.ly/1cVGzeT

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JAN. 25: Artisan Exchange, the indoor artisan food and farmers market in West Chester, features local food from local businesses. Artisan Exchange is open every Saturday from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at 208 Carter Drive, Ste. 13B, West Chester, in the Matlack

Total Mortgage Rebrands Wholesale Division

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 22, 2014 at 12:54PM:

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http://bit.ly/LGyPad

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In Connecticut, Total Mortgage Services’ wholesale division is relaunching with a re-energized focus—and a brand new name, the company announced. Formerly known as TMS Funding, the division is now operating as Total Mortgage Wholesale.

Agent production stats could heighten legal risks of 'pocket listings' | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 22, 2014 at 06:03AM:

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http://bit.ly/1c0rOeR

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Publishing real estate agent production data will bring vast new scrutiny on the practice of pocket listings, and brokers should be concerned.

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Instagram fastest-growing social media site | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 21, 2014 at 05:42PM:

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http://bit.ly/1mCwYBL

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Instagram fastest-growing social media siteshare this Jan 21, 2014 Facebook-owned Instagram is the fastest-growing social media platform globally, increasing its users by 23 percent in the last six months, according to research published by GlobalWebIndex, TechCrunch reports.Facebook claimed the man...

Southeast Sales Manager Rejoins 360 Mortgage Group

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 21, 2014 at 05:27PM:

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http://bit.ly/1ikOGtq

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Austin, Texas’ 360 Mortgage Group announced the return of Gino Berchock to his old role as Southeast Regional Sales Manager.

Dresser Into A Bench!

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

A handful of nutty ideas; buying, roasting and skinning tips

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 21, 2014 at 12:55PM:

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http://bit.ly/1heFGCf

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Go nuts in the kitchen for the holidays. They will seduce you and your guests with their delicious flavors and textures, and they’ll give your table an international flair.

Old Dresser Into TV Stand!

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

Santa’s Gift to Builders: Higher Home Prices

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 21, 2014 at 12:09PM:

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Source:

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

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Several measures indicate that home builders again started hiking prices last fall as buyers regained a bit of confidence in the market.

Poll: Consumers More Concerned by Service than Market Trends

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 21, 2014 at 11:01AM:

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http://bit.ly/1bPyjRw

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As analysts continue to watch market indicators for trends that might hamper the borrowing experience, a recent poll shows that borrowers themselves are more focused on customer service problems. The poll, conducted by real estate search engine Qazzoo.com

DIY Project: Hanging Birthday Calendar

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

What Google's $3.2B Nest Labs acquisition means for real estate | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 21, 2014 at 05:34AM:

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http://bit.ly/1iiPizL

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Smart connected devices and appliances will have a significant impact on homes this year, and with Google’s acquisition of Nest, I think it’s safe to say the Internet of Things has finally hit home.

Monday, January 20, 2014

New Index Reveals Market at Risk

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 20, 2014 at 10:08PM:

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http://bit.ly/1mxKHKa

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The American Enterprise Institute (AEI) has launched a new initiative designed to mitigate the damage of housing’s boom-and-bust cycles. Designed by AEI fellows Edward Pinto and Stephen Oliner, the newly unveiled Mortgage Risk Index measures the saf

What ways do you keep your cables tidy?

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

Price Appreciation Projected for 90% of Nation's Top Markets

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 20, 2014 at 03:49PM:

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http://bit.ly/1bErvpK

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In its latest forecast, analytics firm Veros Real Estate Solutions predicts home prices will rise on average 5.1 percent for the nation’s top 100 metro areas. The company’s previous 2014 projections, released last quarter, called for 4.8 perce

‘Bridgegate’ investigators probe claim that Sandy relief tied to Hoboken redevelopment project |...

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 20, 2014 at 03:46PM:

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http://bit.ly/Lx83RN

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‘Bridgegate’ investigators probe claim that Sandy relief tied to Hoboken redevelopment projectshare this Jan 20, 2014 The Mayor of Hoboken, N.J. says two key staffers for New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie told her that her city was more likely to get Superstorm Sandy relief funds if she supported a com...

Another Great Pallet Idea

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

‘Peter Pan’ will be NBC’s next live musical

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 20, 2014 at 12:23PM:

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http://bit.ly/1mvrlFw

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NBC announced its next live musical will be “Peter Pan,” airing Dec. 4, with the cast so far unknown but with award-winning executive producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron signed to produce.

How to trigger appreciation from former clients, not just recall | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 20, 2014 at 03:05AM:

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http://bit.ly/Kpl13y

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Zach Pritchard, who works in business development at address-change system Updater, says there's a better way to stay top of mind than email check-ins.

Sunday, January 19, 2014

Golden Rams fail to hold onto lead

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 19, 2014 at 12:00PM:

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http://bit.ly/LqkP4p

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WEST CHESTER – The statistics indicate that the West Chester women have not been particularly adept defensively. Some of it has to do with employing an up-tempo style of play, but on Saturday it played a major factor in the Golden Rams first PS

Saturday, January 18, 2014

Foreclosures hit six-year low in 2013

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 19, 2014 at 12:19AM:

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http://bit.ly/1jgidSL

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2013 was a banner year in the fight against foreclosures, with foreclosure filings hitting their lowest level since 2007.

Residents recall B-52 crash, nuclear scare

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 18, 2014 at 11:48AM:

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http://bit.ly/1cFvFts

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SOMERSET, Pa. (AP) — Nearly 50 years ago to the day, strong winds and faulty mechanics hurled five U.S. airmen to the earth from above southern Somerset County.

Vintage Stove

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

Friday, January 17, 2014

Surface agent performance data, but how? | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 17, 2014 at 08:33PM:

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http://bit.ly/LhPO2s

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A townhall-style meeting at Real Estate Connect New York City on whether the industry should publish agent performance data for consumers showed a growing consensus that it should be done. How to do it remains the big, unanswered question.

Economists Review Progress on Road to Recovery

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 17, 2014 at 06:08PM:

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http://bit.ly/1gX3yKI

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The housing market has made great strides in recovering from the problems that ail it, but there are still major improvements that have to occur before it’s back up to full health, Freddie Mac says in its latest Economic and Housing Market Outlook.

Housing-Starts Forecast for 2014: Past Is not Prologue

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 17, 2014 at 04:42PM:

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http://on.wsj.com/1b6hr91

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The U.S. Census Bureau announced Friday that housing construction starts totaled an estimated 923,400 units for 2013. That’s less than many analysts’ initial forecasts for the year.

Kitten Break

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

Awesome Kids Room Idea

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

Credit Standards Relax at Year-End

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 17, 2014 at 11:46AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1gVqKch

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After loosening steadily for several months, credit standards for mortgage loans ended the 2013 at their lowest level all year, according to the December Origination Insight Report from Ellie Mae. The average FICO score for a first-lien loan closed in Dec

NAROFF FINANCIAL REPORT: December Industrial Production and November Job Openings

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 17, 2014 at 11:33AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1dC3kc3

Description:

KEY DATA: Industrial Production: plus 0.3 percent; Manufacturing: plus 0.4 percent / Openings: plus 70,000; Hires: plus 10,000; Quits: plus 46,000

Pebbled Flower Vase

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

How to show -- and sell -- a smart home | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 17, 2014 at 06:03AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1i4ShM7

Description:

Real estate agents need to learn and love smart-home technology. Here are three tips for showing and selling the smart home.

Thursday, January 16, 2014

Departing Fed Chair Talks Economic Health, Defends Policies

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 16, 2014 at 11:05PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1dzuakV

Description:

In a conversation Thursday hosted by the Brookings Institution, outgoing Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke defended the Fed’s easy money policies, dismissing concerns of out of control inflation and capital losses. He also eased worries about th

Builder Confidence Levels Out in January

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 16, 2014 at 04:45PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1dykLKy

Description:

The National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) Housing Market Index (HMI) experienced a slight stumble in January, dipping a point from December as builders expressed falling confidence in the single-family market. The HMI, a gauge of homebuilder

Easy DIY Cat Tent

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

$100 million investable market? That's not going to cut it | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 16, 2014 at 01:33PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/LaSSgU

Description:

$100 million doesn't cut it for Amy Wu, a senior associate at venture capital firm IA Ventures

Butcher Block Counter

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

Father, son biking journey a dream come true for Kennett residents

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 16, 2014 at 11:11AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/LahMNC

Description:

“From sea to shining sea.”It’s the last line in one of America’s favorite patriotic tunes, but for Ellis and Stuart Coleman, those words have a whole new meaning now that the father-and-son duo have completed an arduous yet rewarding cross-coun

MBA Data Points to Decline in December New Home Sales

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 16, 2014 at 10:34AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1gQkiTS

Description:

The latest builder application data from the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) suggest new home sales numbers came in below average for December. MBA’s latest Builder Application Survey, a measure of application volume from mortgage subsidiaries of

How to hang Art (above a sofa)

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

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Minorities less likely to ask for a mortgage, more likely to be told 'no' | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 16, 2014 at 12:01AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1duWapZ

Description:

Persistent disparities in homeownership rates between whites and minorities may be at least partly explained by the fact that minorities are less likely to apply for mortgages than whites and more likely to be denied, a study by Zillow and the National Urban League suggests. The study also found man...

Former First Franklin CEO to Lead WDB Funding

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 15, 2014 at 10:04PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1hZqLj4

Description:

WDB Funding, LLC, announced the appointment of Andrew Pollock as the firm’s president and CEO. Pollock brings 25 years’ experience heading large-scale lending operations to his new role, where he is responsible for providing day-to-day leaders

DIY Mason Jar Organizer!

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

RealtyTrac Recruits Specialist to Drive Growth of Broker Network

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 15, 2014 at 03:52PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1hYuRYI

Description:

RealtyTrac, one of the nation’s leading sources for housing data, announced the hiring of real estate and technology specialist Samantha Tino as VP of sales for the RealtyTrac Network.

Penny Back Splash!

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

RPR signs data licensing deals with Austin Realtors, Maponics | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 15, 2014 at 11:28AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/K2HCTD

Description:

Realtors Property Resource has signed two new licensing deals to bolster the information available in its national property database.

SF Sketchfest: Alan Arkin, Maya Rudolph, Amy Schumer headed to San Francisco

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 15, 2014 at 10:50AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1aG5LJQ

Description:

Whether they apply to some gangly kid with braces or the ever-expanding comedy summit that is SF Sketchfest, the teenage years are supposed to encompass that troubled time of defining oneself.

DIY Sock Bunny

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

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

But seriously, would anyone actually pay their rent in bitcoin? | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 14, 2014 at 11:13PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1hVEtDr

Description:

So far, a listing site, landlord software provider and real estate brokerage have opened their doors to bitcoin.

Loans Originated Last Year Show Record Performance

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 14, 2014 at 09:07PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1iRki7t

Description:

Loans originated last year are the best-performing mortgage loans on record, according to the November Mortgage Monitor released Tuesday by Black Knight Financial Services (formerly Lender Processing Services). The Monitor also found a significant increas

Survey Reveals Mixed Expectations for Home Prices, Credit Access

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 14, 2014 at 02:51PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1m16ycx

Description:

The New York Fed released on Monday its first monthly Survey of Consumer Expectations (SCE), an Internet-based survey of a rotating panel of approximately 1,200 household heads. According to the December survey, median expected rate of house price growth

State should boost wage to keep pace

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 14, 2014 at 10:32AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1iOb5wx

Description:

The new year brought somewhat better prospects for hundreds of thousands of minimum-wage workers. State legislatures in 13 states, including three of the six bordering Pennsylvania, had authorized minimum-wage increases that kicked in Jan. 1. And anot

10 reasons you shouldn't work in real estate | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 14, 2014 at 09:16AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1iNMgkf

Description:

The real reason to be a real estate agent is because you love what you do. You are willing to put the time, effort and energy into constantly getting better, smarter and more knowledgable.

Monday, January 13, 2014

Fannie Looks for Continued Growth in New Home Activity

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 13, 2014 at 08:02PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/KXjstL

Description:

Fannie Mae released on Monday its latest forecast, predicting overall GDP growth of 2.9 percent in 2014 following 2013’s expected growth of 2.6 percent. The GSE expects housing to contribute 0.6 percentage points to GDP this year, up from 0.3 percen

West Coast Condo Prices Continue Upward

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 13, 2014 at 06:18PM:

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Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1hR3RtW

Description:

West Coast condominium prices continue to rocket upward in December, with sale prices in San Francisco, Los Angeles and Seattle all rising at a double digit clip.

Video listings: 3 steps to success | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 13, 2014 at 06:16PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/JWgK7K

Description:

Video marketing gives your listings a competitive edge. Try these three easy steps to get started.

CFPB Director: Newly Implemented Rules Take Industry 'Back to Basics'

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 13, 2014 at 01:54PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1iIPh5q

Description:

As the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s new origination and servicing rules rolled out on Friday, Director Richard Cordray spoke to an audience in Phoenix, Arizona, to praise what he called a back to basics approach for the mortgage market. Co

Rebekah Viola-Photography

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 13, 2014 at 12:24PM:

Rebekah Viola-Photography, Gap PA

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Source:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rebekah-Viola-Photography/272706612877847

Description:

Natural Light Photographer

Minion Cupcakes!!

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

Real estate pros may get tax break on rental losses | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 13, 2014 at 05:51AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/JUoaYZ

Description:

Any person who qualifies as a real estate professional may deduct all the passive losses incurred from rental real estate activities from other nonpassive income. In short, the passive activity loss rules don’t apply to real estate pros.

Sunday, January 12, 2014

Agent teams up with Marc Klass on housing fund for families of missing children | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 12, 2014 at 05:14PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1caB63o

Description:

Agent teams up with Marc Klass on housing fund for families of missing childrenshare this Jan 10, 2014 Tracy McLaughlin, a luxury real estate agent and major shareholder in Pacific Union International, has started a fund to provide housing to families of missing children.The fund’s co-founder is Mar...

5 Crucial Steps for Successful Real Estate Negotiations

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 12, 2014 at 04:40PM:

5 Crucial Steps for Successful #Real_Estate Negotiations http://ow.ly/svoqI

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Source:

http://ow.ly/svoqI

Description:

5 things to remember when you are negotiating your next big deal. - Sharon Vornholt - Financials

Out of AA batteries?

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

Tip: Use Paper Towel Holder For Your Trash bags for easy Access

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

Penn State tabs Pa. native Franklin to be 16th football coach

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 12, 2014 at 10:05AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1iBskkz

Description:

The new Penn State football coach is coming home, in a sense.

Urban Gardening

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

Saturday, January 11, 2014

Indoor Herb Garden

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

Gorgeous Kitchen

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

Broad Run honored by state association

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 11, 2014 at 09:43AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1lMzANb

Description:

WEST BRADFORD – The advantages of a locally owned and managed golf course is on full display at Broad Run Golfer’s Club, located about five miles west of West Chester. And some influential figures in the industry are starting to take notice.

Fabulous Laundry Room

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

Friday, January 10, 2014

Small Lenders Wary as Mortgage-Lending Rules Take Effect

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 10, 2014 at 07:06PM:

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Source:

http://on.wsj.com/1d95LCE

Description:

Small lenders, already struggling with weak economic conditions and rising interest rates, say new mortgage-lending rules could further crimp their ability to make loans

Massachusetts Housing Agency Publishes Guidelines with AllRegs

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 10, 2014 at 04:26PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1gqraXC

Description:

Going forward, the Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency (MassHousing) will maintain its policies and procedures using the AllRegs technology platform, the Minnesota-based information provider announced.

Unique Creative Coat Hanger

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

3 strategies to get better social media results in 2014 | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 10, 2014 at 12:55PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1lJ2zkM

Description:

Social media strategy for real estate is really about learning more about your audience (potential clients) and providing fantastic value with your knowledge and expertise on the platforms, and in the ways, and when, they are most likely to find you.

Stunning Stacked Stone Fireplace

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

December Jobs Report Shows Paltry Growth, Plunge in Labor Force

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 10, 2014 at 10:16AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1bZswEn

Description:

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) released Friday its Employment Situation Report, revealing job growth well below consensus forecasts. According to the government report, the U.S. economy added 74,000 jobs last month. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate

Column: Democrats, Republicans both wrong on Obamacare

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 10, 2014 at 09:18AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1bZeym1

Description:

Top Republicans privately recognize that repeatedly trying to repeal the Affordable Care Act is no longer a winning strategy. For Democrats, there is the risk that new problems will emerge within a program that still lacks strong leadership. They may als

Fabulous Bathroom Decor

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

Thursday, January 9, 2014

New mortgage rules will create paperwork headaches, not derail recovery | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 10, 2014 at 12:29AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1gnD9oZ

Description:

New mortgage rules will create paperwork headaches, not derail recoveryshare this Jan 9, 2014 New rules taking effect Friday requiring lenders to verify that borrowers can repay mortgages destined to be securitized and sold to investors will create paperwork headaches and delays. But fears that they...

Churchill Mortgage Builds on West Coast Presence with California Office

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 09, 2014 at 03:33PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1gm4HLi

Description:

Churchill Mortgage’s West Coast presence continues to expand with the opening of a new office in Orange, California, the company announced.

Far fewer mortgage borrowers 'deeply underwater'

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 09, 2014 at 12:17PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1ilIzlK

Description:

Home prices have pushed a lot of homeowners above water on their mortgages.

Slow Cooker Melted Chocolate! Perfect for a dessert bar with lots of items you could dip in chocolate. Whats your favorite dipping food??

Slow Cooker Melted Chocolate!

Perfect for a dessert bar with lots of items you could dip in chocolate. Whats your favorite dipping food??

Original can be found on the Timothy … Read the rest

Bobby Petrino is going back to Louisville

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 09, 2014 at 09:05AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/KChQWb

Description:

Western Kentucky’s Bobby Petrino has accepted an offer to return to Louisville as head football coach, a move the Cardinals could make official Thursday morning.

Shadow inventory still nearly triple normal level | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 09, 2014 at 08:54AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1d2CEAP

Description:

Shadow inventory still nearly triple normal levelshare this Jan 9, 2014 The housing market has made significant strides in working off a bloated crisis-induced supply of foreclosures, but the “shadow inventory” — the number of homes that are delinquent by 90 days or more, foreclosures and real estat...

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Small Servicers Feeling Heat from New Rules

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 08, 2014 at 07:59PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1lChj50

Description:

While most larger servicing shops have made a great deal of progress ahead of Friday’s new industry regulations, a report from Fitch finds smaller companies still have a number of challenges to meet. Fitch acknowledges that many independent and non-

Real estate startup Closing Time gets $2.7 million in seed funding | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 08, 2014 at 06:42PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1hwSqaN

Description:

Amitree, whose Closing Time tool offers personalized homebuying checklists, has raised $2.7 million in seed funding from global venture capital firm Accel Partners and several individual investors.

Republican Lawmakers Back Mortgage-Fee Increases

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 08, 2014 at 05:05PM:

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Source:

http://on.wsj.com/JIidyi

Description:

Three Republican lawmakers on Wednesday defended mortgage-fee increases announced by the Federal Housing Finance Agency last month that were later suspended by the agency’s new director.

More people moving to Oregon

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 08, 2014 at 04:05PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1hwmqn0

Description:

Oregon was the number one destination among people who moved from one state to another last year, according to an annual migration study from United Van Lines.

5 reasons to care about the farm bill even if you aren’t a farmer

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 08, 2014 at 08:52AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1cYu8Tt

Description:

Congress is poised to pass a farm bill this month. Here’s why you should care.

IRS getting a late start processing some tax returns | Inman News

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 08, 2014 at 05:35AM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1a7vtTQ

Description:

The tax season is going to get off to a late start this year with the IRS announcing that because of last year's government shutdown, it won't start processing 2013 individual tax returns until Jan. 31 -- 10 days later than usual.

Tuesday, January 7, 2014

November Home Prices Up 11.8% Annually

Posted by Me on Facebook on January 07, 2014 at 07:02PM:

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Source:

http://bit.ly/1ddYOBK

Description:

CoreLogic’s Home Price Index (HPI) improved year-on-year for the 21st straight month in November, setting 2013 up to be the best year for home price gains since before the crash. According to the company’s index, home prices nationwide (includ