1. Buy a cross-cut type shredder and be sure to shred all personal and card info, especially approved credit applications.
2. Be careful of “Dumpster Diving.” Make sure that you do not throw anything away that someone could use to become you.
3. Be careful at ATM’s and using phone cards. “Shoulder Surfers” can get your [...]

Governor Schwarzenegger, is trying to pass a statewide tax credit for new and existing home purchases starting May 1st, 2010.  Click Here to read more.  I have a few concerns about where the funds are coming from within the state’s budget,  and how long the funds will last.  What do you think?

Often times people are a little apprehensive about going through the pre-approval process.  Frankly, we all are a bit afraid of credit scores and we hope that we will be approved for an amount that we want.  The following is a typical need list.
Every case is different, but this is what is typically needed to [...]

Senior Mortgage Consultant and Branch Owner of RPM Mortgage in Berkeley, Chet Gohd’s market update:
We saw some encouraging news this morning with the Fed’s Beige Book report, its somewhat of a glass half-full scenario with a hole in the bottom of the glass ..First the CNN report, then the Chet update;
The economy has shown signs [...]

This chart shows the number of properties that were purchased between 2004 and 2007 with Adjustable Rate Mortgages.  This chart breaks down the data by zip code.  The 94608 zip code an area that contains parts of West Oakland, North Oakland and Emeryville.  During the peak, (years 2004-2007) 30% of buyers purchased properties, (with 1-4 [...]

I love hearing what mortgage professionals think about the future of mortgage interest rates.   Chet Gohd of RPM Mortgage in Berkeley recently gave me his opinion of what is next.

June 24th:
“The Federal Reserve concluded their meeting today with leaving interest rates unchanged and offering a few remarks about their view of the current status of [...]

Taxpayers Beware: Zero Profit Doesn’t Mean
Zero Capital Gains Taxes
In this difficult market, many taxpayers are selling property in short sales or other transactions with no profit. Unfortunately, what many taxpayers do not understand is that property may be sold with no profit, but still be subject to significant taxable capital gain.
How is this possible? It [...]

Let me create a comprehensive marketing plan for you! For those of you who know me, I am a very visual person.  I just created this custom brochure for my clients and I can do the same for you.  Spread the word!

1949 -  Joe Louis retired from boxing, Miles Davis released the Birth Of The Cool album, The Lone Ranger premiered on television and 4138 Coolidge Avenue was built in the Lincoln Heights district of Oakland. The California Zephyr launched its  inaugural run and Oaklanders ate dinner at the Grotto in Jack London Square.  The World [...]

The following information was provided by Old Republic Title Co. Thanks!