From our home page click "Search Listings" 

You will be taken to the search map page below showing homes between the default settings of 150,000 min and $350,000 max.

Here's the cool thing. As you change default search criteria or move the map the pins on the map automatically update. It's quick and easy! If you wan to move the map just click your left mouse button, hold it down and drag. That's it. 

So test it now for yourself and let us know what you think. 

According to the most recent Re/MAX National Housing Report we are experiencing the beginnings of a genuine housing recovery.

These are historic times to purchase a home and more and more buyers are waking up to the fact that current home prices and interest rates will not last forever.

There is even some good news for sellers as the median sales price of homes has risen 1.1% since February of 2011. 

Here is the full report. It's a good read.

If you are looking, look hard and long as you may never find a better time to upgrade your housing.

We are here to help! Just shoot us an email or give us a call at 574-968-4214.

Anita

But since the first of this year we have noticed a tightening in the Federal Housing Administration's (FHA) underwriting guidelines. Here is a paraphrased summary of the news letter sent to mortgage banks this week.

EFFECTIVE April 1st, the FHA buyer who has collections totaling $1,000 or more that are not in an active repayment plan will no longer be able to get an FHA loan without paying them all off.

The existing guideline reads:

FHA does not require that collection accounts be paid off as a condition of mortgage approval. However, courtordered judgments must be paid off before the mortgage loan is eligible for FHA insurance endorsement.

The new guideline reads:

If the total outstanding balance of all collection accounts is equal to or greater than $1,000 the borrower must resolve the accounts (e.g. entered into payment arrangements with minimum three months verified payments- paid as agreed) or paid in full at the time of, or prior to closing. Mortgagees must document the case binder showing each account was resolved or paid in full. If the total outstanding balance of all collection accounts is less than $1,000, the borrower is not required to pay off the collection accounts as a condition of mortgage approval. FHA continues to require judgments to be paid off before the mortgage loan is eligible for FHA insurance.*

* Exception: An exception to the payoff of a court-ordered judgment may be made if the borrower has an agreement with the creditor to make regular and timely payments, and provides documentation indicating that a minimum of three months payments have been made according to the agreement. The monthly payment must be included in the borrower’s debt-to-income ratio. Examples of acceptable documentation to support the resolution of disputed accounts or the payoff of accounts would be a letter from the creditor outlining the terms of the payment arrangements, or verifying payoff of debt, cancelled check(s), or a supplement to the credit report verifying payoff or payment arrangements. Note: Paying “down” of balances on disputed accounts and collections to reduce the singular or cumulative balance to below $1,000, is not an acceptable resolution of accounts.

This is the second large FHA guideline change since the first of the year from FHA. If you are thinking of buying a home strike while the iron is still hot.

Let us know if we can help.

• Low down payment and flexible mortgage terms (fixed–rate, adjustable rate, or interest–only).
• Down payment (at least 3 percent) can be funded by the borrower’s own savings; a gift; a grant; or a loan from a nonprofit organization, state or local government, or employer.
• No lender-requested appraisal.
• No mortgage insurance; ask your lender for cost details on loans without mortgage insurance.
• Expanded seller contributions for closing costs allowed.
• Available for primary residences, second homes and investment properties.
• Many condo project requirements are waived; ask your lender for details.
• For more information, contact a HomePath Mortgage lender or click here for the Home Buyers Guide.

• Review your financial position to determine the price most suited to your ability to pay and comfort level. Pre-qualifying will help you in the following ways:
  • • • Interest rates are usually locked in for a set period of time. You will know in advance exactly what your payments will be on offers you choose to make.
  • You won’t waste time considering homes you cannot afford.
  • You can select the best loan package without being under pressure.
  • Seller may choose to make concessions if they know that your financing is secured, and this may make your offer more competitive.
• Estimate purchase costs and explain them in detail.
• Explain financing alternatives to help you select the one best suited for you.
• Discuss home styles, availability, location, schools and any specific features that you desire.
• Explain the Offer to Purchase Agreement in detail, as well as the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).
• Prepare a market report, pricing recommendations and an estimate of equity from the sale of your present home, if applicable. Provide you with information on all properties currently for sale, including new and pre-owned homes, single family homes and condominiums or villas.

I understand the many questions and concerns of home buyers and how this information will be helpful throughout the transaction. I assure you that it is my goal to provide you with the most professional and informative service available. I am always just a call away when you have a questions.

Anita Hildebrecht RE/MAX 100 & RE/MAX Modern Realty 3010 Hickory Road Mishawaka IN 46545 Direct Line: 574-968-4214 Cell: 574-298-1978

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Here is a beautiful, well kept Condo on the St Joseph river. It's a slick property. Neat as a button. Is that a phrase? Not sure but I'm not over selling this Condo when I say it is unique. It's in a very quiet area of South Bend encompassed  the river and Riverside Drive across the river and the Notre Dame golf course.

Perfect living quarters for a student or anyone who enjoys waterfront living. Did I mention it was quiet?

A picture is worth a thousand and one words. This picture was taken off the Condo's all-weather composite deck off the great rooms sliding glass doors. Nice eh? I could wake up to that every morning with a cup of Joe in my hand.

With over 1,600 square feet, three bedrooms and two full baths this is a nice size Condo.

What's more the price was reduced today by $10,000.

Give me a call and see for yourself.

• Discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each home in relation to your specific needs.
• Keep you informed on a regular basis.
• Check the MLS data base and with other brokers daily for new listings that meet your criteria.
• Prepare an itinerary and “tour” map on which all homes meeting your criteria have been located.
• Keep you up to date on changing financial conditions that may affect the housing market.
• Be available to answer your questions or to offer assistance regarding your home purchase.
• Discuss market trends and values relative to properties which may be of interest to you.
• Assist you with homes offered by “For Sale By Owner.” A homeowner trying to sell their home themselves is usually doing so in hopes of saving the commission. Coincidentally, this is the reason a buyer wants to deal directly with a homeowner. Many times a homeowner will work with an agent, even though his home is not listed, if the agent introduces the buyer to the property. If you should see a FSBO and want the advantages of my services, please let me contact the owner and set the appointment.
• Show you new homes as well as pre-owned homes if you desire.
• Introduce you to local builders to discuss building your next home. I can work with most builders and can get all the information you need to make any decision, but I will need to accompany you to the property on the initial visit. By letting me help you with builders, you get all the services offered in this presentation and those offered by the builder as well. You’ll get more, but you won’t pay more for it.

When Time, Money and Service are Important...Call Anita 574-298-1978

1. How much of your savings you intend to use toward down payment and closing costs.
2. Your annual gross income (before taxes).
3. The length of time with your current employer and previous employers, for the past 2 years.
4. Your monthly payments on long term debts (such as a car payment) and credit card balances.
5. Child care expenses and/or alimony, if any.
6. Whether or not there have been any bankruptcy or credit problems.

The information which you provide will be held in strict confidence.

Pre-Qualifying and Lender Requirements

I am familiar with the lender’s requirements and, using the above information, will be able to determine your price range and your ability to qualify for a loan. In this counseling session, I will tell you approximately how much you can anticipate in closing costs and prepaid items at the time of closing. I suggest that you actually meet with a lender before house-hunting if there is any question regarding your qualifications or simply to get a head start on financing.

Financing Options

Depending upon the price of the home and/or the amount of your down payment, there may be several options that fit your needs. They include VA (for military veterans only) which allows 100% financing of the purchase, FHA (Federal Housing Administration) which allows purchase with as little as 3% down and CONVENTIONAL, generally the best option when putting down 20%. In addition to these traditional methods, there are a variety of other creative financing options including Owner Financing, First Time Home Buyer Programs, Loan Assumptions, and Lease Purchase.

When Time, Money and Service are Important...Call Anita 574-298-1978

They were:

• Magazine subscriptions
• Newspaper fees
• Paper or ink for the computer
• Stamps
• Self-sealing envelopes
• Special food she would no longer buy
• Car washes
• Gas cards
• Occasional cleaning help
• Craft supplies
• Books
• Handmade card from grand kids
• Movie or theater tickets

This widow was not complaining and her children treat her well, she just wanted to lend a helping hand to those possibly looking for gifts for the elderly.

Nice job!

While checking around for one of our clients I noticed a special offer from BW Service Experts. They are knocking $51 dollars off their normal $120 furnace tune up price. The special lasts until November 30th. Total cost for the furnace tune up which includes a filter replacement up to 1 inch think, is 69 bucks.

That's a pretty good price.

And no, we're not kicking any kickbacks for promoting BW Service Experts, it's just that I checked around and this price of $69 was $120 less expensive than the other well known HVAC company in the area I called.

So if you're thinking about giving your furnace a tune up before winter now is the time to call.

Click here for special furnace tune up coupon.

This short video does a good job explaining what to consider when making your purchase and may save those of you who already own Homeowners Insurance some money.

Most of the emails are solicitations trying their best to sell some "can't miss" winner guaranteed to make me more money.

Uh huh,

But what's this? Almost hidden amidst the spam is an email from a recent listing client. "Hmmm, that listing closed awhile back. I wonder what she needs?"

I open up the email and begin reading;

"Dear Anita & Mark,

Just wanted to thank you for all your hard work in the closing of our home. I received the final papers from the title company this week.

My father passed away a year ago and my goal was to sell the house before this summer. It's funny that with all the issues involved with the sale I have no regrets.

I was impressed by your professionalism and attention to detail. I truly believe this would not have sold with any other realtor.

Again, thank you. Hopefully real estate will turn around soon in the South Bend area.

Martha"

Well doesn't that just make the day start off a whole lot better. Honest praise means so much more when it's unexpected and not requested.

Thanks so much Martha. You were wonderful to work with and we appreciate your compliment. We hope we can serve you again in the future.

Anita & Mark

Here are some quick bullet points from the article:

• There are countless allergens in the average household that can cause sinus pain and pressure.
• You can have a clean house and still have problems
• Pets can be an irritant
  • Even if cat or dog resided in home before you got there.
  • Pet dander can get so ingrained in upholstery you have to remove everything from previous owner such as carpets and furniture
• This time of year air-conditioning system can cause sinus problems
  • Change A/C filters on regular basis to avoid issues
• If you have done everything possible in your home to get rid of allergens in your home and you're still sneezing you may need medication.
• Nasal saline irrigation is a natural remedy that may work

To read the complete article, which isn't too long click: "Is Your Home to Blame for Sinus Pain?"

Characteristics
Life Cycle
Signs of Infestation
Prevention
Treatment and Control

Here are some bullet points of the article:

Characteristics:

• Among largest species
• Queen 9/16"
• Workers 1/4 - 7/16"
• Adults vary in color
• Black carpenter ant most common that nest in home

Life Cycle

• Capenter ants swarm in spring
• After 3 - 6 years colony will contain 2,000 - 3,000 workers and will start to produce "swarmers".
• Swarmers produced in autumn (wait until spring to emerge)
• Mature colony usually contains one queen with 200 to 400 winged swarmers

Signs of an Infestation

• Swarmers found inside house is a likely sign of a nest in or under house.
• Swarmers found outdoors or on porches sign of nearby colony.
• In early spring worker ants may be found looking for water around sinks
• Ant trails may extend 300 feet from nest
• Can hear sound from a colony that infest house
• Sawdust is tell-tale sign of carperter ant infestation
• Damage appears as slit-like opening
• Do not eat wood; they tunnel while building nest
• Perfer wood with 15% moisture content
• Invade through foundation cracks, windows, doors or heating/AC vents
• Primary food for Carpenter Ants is honeydew
• Water is also important

Prevention

• Nearby trees or tree stumps breed potential for carpenter ant infestion
• Inspect property
• Insecticides OK but don't overdo
• Key is to remember Carpenter Ants are usually associated with moisture and wood

Treatment and Control

• Carpenter ants found in home does NOT necessarily mean there is nest inside
• Step 1 - determine if nest is indoors
• Alternative to spraying - bait ants outdoors
• Concentrate on first on areas around home most vulnerable to moisture
• In general, baits are best approach to dealing with ants
• May require full week before activity declines
• Do NOT spray where you place bait

Much more can be discovered by reading the full article on Carpenter Ants

Necessity is the mother of invention and when it comes to cutting a piece of cake necessity has finally produced "The Piece of Cake". 

This absolute necessity to your current collection of kitchen utensils neatly cuts a piece of cake and lifts it out so you don't leave a single crumb for any one else.

Just press down, lift up and ...Voila.

The only real problem I can see with this terrific kitchen tool is the size. I'd have made it a tad larger :-)

Click here to learn more about "A Piece of Cake".