Thursday, December 31, 2015

Home of the Week- 8843 Winchester Way

Contact info:
Jesse Rene Garza | (210) 663-4092
Spacious One and a Half Story
8843 Winchester Way San Antonio, TX 78254

$276,825



KEY FEATURES
Year Built: 2015
Sq Footage: 2364 square feet
Bedrooms: 4 Beds
Bathrooms: 3.5 Baths
Floors: 2
Parking: 2 Garage
Laundry: In Unit
Lot Size: 5400 square feet
HOA/Maint: $455
Property Type: Single Family House

DESCRIPTION

This one story and a half story, 4 bedroom home is evenly spaced out with all the bedrooms towards the front of the home. The beautiful kitchen with an island countertop opens up to the family room and allows everyone to interact, whether their cooking or watching television. Enjoy a nice evening on the back covered patio, which can be easily accessed from the family room. For ample privacy, the master bedroom is located in the back of the home.

 PROPERTY FEATURES
 
  • Living room
  • Walk-in closet
  • Master bath
  • Storage space
  • Pantry
  • Range / Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Patio
  • Yard
  • Fenced yard
  • Sprinkler system
  • Central A/C
  • Cable-ready
  • Tile floor
 COMMUNITY FEATURES
 
  • New property
  • Community pond
  • Swimming Pool
Contact info:
Jesse Rene Garza | (210) 663-4092
YouTube video:  https://youtu.be/4RDLI284Hw8

Is a reverse mortgage right for you?

Is a reverse mortgage right for you?




If you’re a retiree, you have probably heard talk of reverse mortgages. What exactly are they? What are the pros and cons? Is a reverse mortgage a good idea for you personally?


Reverse mortgages are basically loans available to people over 62. Using your house as collateral, the lender gives you money to use during your retirement. The income usually is not taxable, and it generally won't affect your Social Security or Medicare benefits. There are no loan payments — since you're borrowing money against the equity in your house, you don't have to repay the loan as long as you own the house. You can choose to receive your money as a monthly income, or as a line of credit...


http://flip.it/RlypV



Fannie and Freddie Forever

Fannie and Freddie Forever


Washington is a place where bad ideas go to live forever. How else to explain the latest innovation from federal regulators to keep Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac dominating the market for mortgage finance?   ... http://flip.it/0_cRR



The 10 Biggest Commercial Real Estate Stories of 2015

The 10 Biggest Commercial Real Estate Stories of 2015


Whatever else you can say about 2015, it was without a doubt a very big year for the U.S. commercial real estate industry. Here we look back at some of the biggest deals and trends that happened in the past 12 months.  ... http://flip.it/_Il6R



How to Buy Calculator: What's the Minimum Deposit You Need?

Help to Buy calculator: what's the minimum deposit you need?


For “generation rent”, saving for a house deposit can seem an insurmountable task.
Prices are rising in most parts of Britain, meaning would-be buyers are chasing a moving target.  http://flip.it/b_occ





The healthiest housing markets in the U.S.

These are the three healthiest housing markets in the U.S.




Metro areas as diverse as Fresno, Calif., Austin, Texas, and Honolulu, Hawaii are the healthiest housing markets in the country, according to mortgage giant Freddie Mac.
That’s how its Multi-Indicator Market Index, or “MiMi,” which pulls together data that aims to show whether local, state and national housing markets are stable and “consistent with that market’s long-term normal activity,” assessed conditions in October.  http://flip.it/FKJjW



Why Millennials Could jump into Home Ownership

Why Millennials Could Jump Into Home Ownership






When it comes to homeownership, roommates Gina Beach, 28, and Bill Galatzer, 31, are polar opposites. The two friends currently rent a two-bedroom, two-bath duplex in Chicago’s up-and-coming West Town neighborhood. Galatzer is actively looking to buy his own condo in the area, but Beach says she never plans to become a homeowner.




“Let's say I move into a place tomorrow and get a roommate the same day. I pay $300 less per month and the money I pay goes to equity,” Galatzer said.  http://flip.it/AvDR4



How the Government Held Back a Real Housing Market Recovery in 2015

How the Government Held Back a Real Housing Market Recovery in 2015




Seven years after the housing market collapse, the housing market continued a lopsided recovery in 2015.




Overall, the housing market was stalled by a combination of meddling from the federal government, and the continued weaknesses in the broader economy and labor market


http://flip.it/o5rG3



Wednesday, December 30, 2015

The Fastest Ways to Wreck Your Credit

The Fastest Ways To Wreck Your Credit




There are a handful of financial missteps that can wreak havoc on your credit score, and in a hurry.
It pays to know what they are. Your all-important credit score is used to determine your eligibility for mortgages, car loans and credit cards, plus how high of an interest rate you’ll pay. Prospective landlords and employers can also pull your credit reports ... http://flip.it/MijUU



6 Ways to Protect Your Home From the Coming Forclosure Crisis

6 Ways to Protect Your Home From the Coming Foreclosure Crisis




Think the mortgage foreclosure crisis is long over? Think again. A legacy of the Great Recession of 2008-2009, the problem of financially pressed Americans losing their homes wasn't solved -- only deferred.
Many public and private temporary relief measures will expire in 2016, likely triggering ... http://flip.it/fkrnp



20 Awesome Color Schemes for a Modern Kitchen

20 Awesome Color Schemes for a Modern Kitchen


An all-white kitchen has been a kitchen sought after in recent years; the crisp, clean appearance and light airiness of a white kitchen certainly has its appeal! But there are many color options for a contemporary kitchen that still look fresh, with more than a pinch of personality thrown in.... http://flip.it/5qlhk



Tuesday, December 29, 2015

This place has the highest household debt per-calita in the US

This place has the highest household debt per-capita in the US




There are some states where per-capita household debt has reached new all-time highs. And the biggest shining example of this isn’t California! It's Washington, D.C.


Growing consumer debt is the Holy Grail. Since household incomes have not kept up with consumer price inflation, and since college and medical expenses are on a runaway train, and since rampant asset price inflation has whipped housing costs into frenzy, the economic leadership in the US wants consumers to pay for it by taking   http://flip.it/lF6y9



Property industry to remain tough next year

Property industry to remain tough next year


KUALA LUMPUR: Amid the challenging economic environment, the property industry is expected to remain tough next year as a result of the slowdown from the 2011-2013 property boom which saw home prices growing at double digits.

Even if the government's gross domestic product's (GDP) growth target remains intact at four-five per cent this year, industry players opined that the price performance of the housing sector next year would be flat or at best, show a marginal growth.


http://flip.it/cXJJQ



Oil Slump Weighing on Housing Markets in Texas and North Dakota

Oil slump weighing on housing markets in Texas, North Dakota


http://flip.it/rWgTY



There May be More Single Women Buying Houses in 2016

There May Be More Single Women Buying Houses in 2016




Up until the housing crisis, single women in the U.S. bought houses more often than their single male counterparts. While the share of single female homebuyers tapered off as mortgages became harder to come by in the wake of the crisis, the tide may change in 2016.


The percentage of single female homebuyers dropped to 15% this year from 21% in 2009, but it looks that share is about to make a... http://flip.it/jplR3



Monday, December 28, 2015

10 Ways to Deal with Debt after the Holidays

10 Ways to Deal With Debt After the Holidays


http://flip.it/-hVTa




4 Quick Ways to Improve Your Credit Score in 2016

4 Quick Ways to Improve Your Credit Score in 2016


Between store credit card inquiries, high balances and perhaps a missed payment or two, the holiday season can be tough on your credit. Fortunately, there are some quick ways to improve your credit score and recoup some of the points any faux pas may have caused. If your score is depressed going into the New Year, here’s what you can do to get it back on track. http://flip.it/hNs-S



Homeownership among young people at record low

Homeownership among young people at record low


http://flip.it/SZ-8p



6 Stellar Reasons to Buy a Home in 2016

6 Stellar Reasons to Buy a Home in 2016




Is it really 2016 already? For those of you who happen to be planning on buying a home in the new year -- or even just trying to -- there's a whole lot to celebrate. Why? A variety of financial vectors have dovetailed to make this the perfect storm for home buyers to get out there and make an (winning) offer. Here are six home-buying reasons to be thankful while ringing in the new year:


Reason No. 1: Interest rates are still at record lows


http://flip.it/.qSI6



4 Smart and Easy Ways to Modernize Your Home

4 Smart and Easy Ways To Modernize Your Home


http://flip.it/tIdBQ



15 Amazing Colorful Bathrooms Design

15 Amazing Colorful Bathroom Designs


http://flip.it/IdN7O



15 of the most expensive houses for sale in America

The 15 most expensive houses for sale in America


http://flip.it/UjZfG



8 Ways to Makeover Your Windows

8 Ways To Makeover Your Windows


http://flip.it/pMxZN



Alabama homeowners spend around $2 billion home improvements during 2015

Alabama homeowners spent around $2 billion home improvements during 2015


http://flip.it/gpYpg



Sunday, December 27, 2015

New Survey shows social media post are leaving homeowners exposed to burglars

New survey shows social media posts are leaving home owners exposed to burglars





They are the statistics that, for some, may yet ruin Christmas.




One in three people have never met their friends and followers on social media yet more than half upload posts about holidays away - with a further third posting pictures of gifts left behind in the house.



http://flip.it/6lc-v






Home of the Week- 11615 Nova Icaria

Contact info:
Jesse Rene Garza | (210) 663-4092
Spacious One and a Half Story
11615 Nova Icaria San Antonio, TX 78253

$318,495



KEY FEATURES
Year Built: 2015
Sq Footage: 2592 square feet
Bedrooms: 4 Beds
Bathrooms: 2.5 Baths
Floors: 2
Parking: 2 Garage
Laundry: In Unit
Lot Size: 7200 square feet
HOA/Maint: $385
Property Type: Single Family House

DESCRIPTION

Upon entering this beautiful one and a half story, you'll see coffered ceilings in the foyer. The hallway leads you the center of this home--the open concept kitchen and family room, as well as your master suite, passing the secondary bedrooms and a formal dining room on the way. The master suite has his and hers sinks, a separate tub and shower and a walk-in-closet.  The home includes a powder bath, a mud room, a utility room with storage, and upstairs game room with powder bath. Relax on your covered back patio.

 PROPERTY FEATURES
 
  • Living room
  • Walk-in closet
  • Master bath
  • Storage space
  • Pantry
  • Office
  • Range / Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Balcony, Deck, or Patio
  • Yard
  • Fenced yard
  • Sprinkler system
  • Central A/C
  • Cable-ready
  • Tile floor
 COMMUNITY FEATURES
 
  • New property
  • Clubhouse:  With restroom near the pool
  • Playground:  Fun jungle gym
  • Swimming Pool:  Pool with a splash area
Contact info:
Jesse Rene Garza | (210) 663-4092
YouTube video:  https://youtu.be/5pnvj9wh0co









8 questions to be able to answer when applying for a loan

8 Questions to Be Able to Answer When Applying for a Loan



Over the last couple of weeks, I’ve detailed for you exactly what you need to do in order to apply for and get a traditional mortgage loan for your investment property. I’ve given you essentially every single question that a loan officer would ask on the residential loan application, and I’ve given you a list of just about any type of documentation that you would need in order to buy an investment property with a traditional mortgage loan.
Are there exceptions to the loan application questions? Nope. It’s called the “uniform” residential loan application for a reason.
Are there exceptions to the loan application documentation? Sure. I’m sure I could write a novel on every exception that I’ve come across, but...

http://flip.it/m9IQV


Top 5 Real Estate Calculations

Top 5 Real Estate Calculations




Despite what many of us would prefer, real estate does involve some math. Luckily, most of the formula’s are rather simple. So here we go with the top five real estate calculations (according to me, that is):

1. Cap Rate: 
Net Operating Income/Total Price of Property
This is mostly used for valuing apartment complexes and other commercial buildings. You want to have a cap rate that is at least as good, preferably better, than comparable buildings in the area. I almost always want to be at a 10 cap rate or better. And always be sure to use real numbers...


http://flip.it/8M_Th


The Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Real Estate Wholesaling

The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Real Estate Wholesaling



Real estate wholesaling is one of the most popular strategies for new investors to get involved with because it can be done with limited funds and experience.
But it’s definitely not all it’s cracked up to be.
I recently realized that BiggerPockets did not have one ultimate source of information about wholesaling. So… I thought I’d take up the banner and give myself a place to send people when they ask about wholesaling. It is my hope that this ultimate guide will give you a great starting point for understanding how wholesaling works. Consider this a foundation upon which you can build your wholesaling...

http://flip.it/7AbxV


How I do my Real Estate math (accurately) in just 10 minutes

How I Do My Real Estate Math (Accurately) in Just 10 Minutes



I get to chat with a lot of new investors through email, telephone, and Facebook, and one of the questions I hear a lot is how to figure out if they can actually buy the house and make MONEY buying it. Sure, we can guess here, guess there, I think the cabinets will be this much, or the driveway be that much. But how much is it REALLY going to cost me?
That’s the ticket. How much can I do the work for, and how fast can I turn the property?
How much can I buy the house for, what it is worth redone, what will it cost me to fix it up, and how long will it take me to sell it? And of course the final...
http://flip.it/H-XA7


10 Well-crafted Craftman Homes Starting at $104,900

10 Well-Crafted Craftsman Homes Starting at $104,900



Although craftsman homes were designed mostly for the burgeoning middle class in the early 20th century, their clean lines and “honest” craftsmanship attracted the upper classes, too. A giant one in California is currently on the market now for nearly $10 million.
Here are 10 at more affordable price... http://flip.it/6NqUs


5 Property Upgrades That Will Increase Your Monthly Income and Property Value

5 Property Upgrades That Will Increase Your Monthly Income And Property Value


By investing in property upgrades for your rental property, you will be able to command a higher rental rate and hopefully a higher level of tenants.

The question is not whether to upgrade, rather what to upgrade.  The following are the areas that are most popular for the renter and the areas you should spend your time and money upgrading.

5 Upgrades The Increase Income & Value

  • Appliances-  Appliances are relatively cheap in terms of remodeling/upgrades and something that should definitely be upgraded ... http://flip.it/tWUZD


When Should Renters Become Buyers?

When Should Renters Become Buyers?



Renters today face the highest monthly charges in history and costs just keep rising month after month. In fact, U.S. renters pay 30 percent of their monthly income on rents while homeowners pay just 15 percent on mortgages. The steep cost of rent makes buying appealing, but many renters don’t have enough disposable income after their rent charges to save for a down payment. So what are renters to do when faced with the choice to keep paying astronomical rents or stretch finances to buy?
We asked personal finance bloggers and mortgage experts to get their insight on determining the best time to rent verses buy.
How did you know you were ready to buy your first home?
We were ready... http://flip.it/218CG


Credit Score Case Study: An Aspiring Investor Tackles Debt, Month Two

Credit Score Case Study: An Aspiring Investor Tackles Debt, Month Two


This is the second post in a series chronicling James’s journey to improve his credit score.
Last month, I gave you some background on James and introduced you to his quest to improve his credit. He’d like to start investing in real estate, and his low credit score is one of the things preventing him from getting a loan.
When we checked in last month, his credit score was 617. On a scale of 300–850, that doesn’t seem too bad, but many lenders won’t even consider you for a mortgage if you have below a 620 score. Even if they do consider you for a loan, it isn’t going to be at the best rate. James hovers near the mortgage minimum, but would like to raise his score considerably.

What is an Average Credit Score?

With credit scores ranging from 300 to 850, a score of 617... http://flip.it/bRCC3


11 Wonderfully Weird Buildings that Actually Exist

11 wonderfully weird buildings that actually exist



Saturday, December 26, 2015

Finishing Touch Homeowners Forget

The Finishing Touch Homeowners Forget



Rent will be even less affordable in 2016

Rent Will Be Even Less Affordable in 2016



2015 Decor Trends: Things We Loved and Loathed

2015 Decor Trends: Things We Loved And Loathed



Federal Housing Administration

Federal Housing Administration




A big change could be about to come to the housing market

A big change could be about to come to the housing market



The Federal Reserve has finally lifted interest rates from 0% and after nine years without a rate hike.
The potential ramifications of the policy move are far-reaching and span various American... http://flip.it/.1xJ7




Thursday, December 24, 2015

Home of the Week- 12438 Horse Crescent



Contact info:
Jesse Rene Garza | (210) 663-4092

Beautiful Two Story Home

12438 Horse Crescent, San Antonio, TX 78254

$308,900

KEY FEATURES
Year Built: 2015
Sq Footage: 2794 square feet
Bedrooms: 4 Beds
Bathrooms: 3.5 Baths
Floors: 2
Parking: 2 Garage
Laundry: In Unit
Lot Size: 6000 square feet
HOA/Maint: $621.50
Property Type: Single Family House

DESCRIPTION

This beautiful two-story home features a front porch for each guest to be greeted before they enter the home. The long foyer gives that dramatic feel of surprise and leads you right into the family room. Being the “heart of the home,” the kitchen features 18” x 18” tile floors, and the complete Stainless Steel Appliance package. If you enjoy having your own cultured marble vanity tops and separate shower and tub, this is the floor plan for you. As you walk upstairs, you are greeted with a game room and 2 other bedrooms that all have ample space for just about anything.

PROPERTY FEATURES
  • Living room
  • Walk-in closet
  • Master bath
  • Storage space
  • Pantry
  • Office
  • Range / Oven
  • Dishwasher
  • Balcony, Deck, or Patio
  • Yard
  • Fenced yard
  • Sprinkler system
  • Central A/C
  • Cable-ready
  • Tile floor
 COMMUNITY FEATURES
  • New property
  • Beach entrance swimming pool
  • Basketball court
  • Tennis court
  • Fitness center
  • Walking trail
  • Playscape
Contact info:
Jesse Rene Garza | (210) 663-4092



How To Do Your Own Yearly Inspection



How To Do Your Own Yearly Home Inspection





20 Decor Ideas That Make Small Bathrooms Feel Bigger


20 DĂ©cor Ideas That Make Small Bathrooms Feel Bigger




Signs That Your Home May be Less Insulated than You Think






Signs That Your Home May be Less Insulated than You Think