The Newlywed Real Estate Agent

Stationery card

2011-11-06T20:29:00.001-08:00

Victorian Frame Blue Birth Announcement

Shutterfly has custom baby invitations and birth announcements.

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The Best Motivation Video

2010-08-26T11:24:00.000-07:00

From Renter To Homeowner To Real Estate Investor

2010-08-17T08:09:00.000-07:00

Becoming a renter is usually the first step to becoming a real estate investor. As a renter, you are establishing a habit of making a monthly payment in exchange for having a roof over your head. You are also paying the owner/landlord's mortgage and/or way of life. If you're paying your rent and other bills on-time and you are saving every month, your next move is into home ownership which is a reward for your "Good Habit."

As a homeowner, you have a vested interest in the property. If you did not pay cash for your home, you are making a monthly mortgage payment. Every month that you make a payment towards your mortgage, you are gaining equity in your home. In addition, your home should be appreciating annually. Hopefully you are keeping up with your "Good Habit" of paying now your mortgage and other bills on-time and you are still saving every month. If all is true, your next move is into real estate investing.

As a real estate investor, someone else is paying your mortgage and/or way of life. You may become a real estate investor by converting your first home into a rental property and you purchase another home. Maybe your real estate agent found you a "steal of a deal" that you purchased as a rental property, or maybe you purchased the property and re-sold it for a profit. As a real estate investor, your keep repeating the cycle of purchasing, renting and/or selling for a profit.

From Renter To Homeowner To Real Estate Investor...Where are you in this cycle? Give me a call @ 832-647-1769 to help you get to the next step.

Using Investment Properties As Your 401K

2010-07-15T10:05:00.000-07:00

If you work for a company that offers a 401K plan or any retirement plan, that is great. I hope you are participating. In addition to being a realtor, I am a real estate investor. I use investment properties as part of my retirement plan. Think about it like this, you can purchase investment properties, rent these properties out, and eventually sell the properties to make a nice profit for your retirement. With your properties being rented, this means somebody else is paying your mortgage, taxes, insurance, and maintenance for you. In other words, your investment properties are paying for themselves, and you should be generating passive income at the same time. Don't forget about the tax advantages of owning investment properties.

The secret to this retirement plan is to start early. Just like the earlier you start contributing to your 401K the faster your money will accrue. The sooner you purchase your first investment property the sooner it will be paid off, and remember real estate is not only for sale, it is on sale at this time. This is a great retirement plan for a married couple or anyone looking to get that edge on their future through real estate.

Call today 832-647-1769.

Real Estate Is Not Only For Sale, It Is On Sale

2010-07-13T07:46:00.000-07:00

With all the foreclosures and short sales on the market, real estate is literally on sale. In addition, mortgages are at a historically low rate. This means you can get a great deal on a property with equity already built-in at an affordable monthly payment. I call this the 2 for 1 special, but hurry because this sale will not last forever.

Stop window shopping and step into my office. Call today 832-647-1769.

Six Selling Myths Uncovered

2010-07-07T13:45:00.000-07:00

Myth #1: You should always price your home high and negotiate down.

Truth: Pricing too high can be as bad as pricing too low. If you list too high, you'll miss out on buyers looking in the price range where your home should be. Offers may not even come in, because buyers who are interested in your home are scared off by the price and won't even take the time to look at it. By the time you correct the price and list your home at its fair market value, you will have lost that window of opportunity when your home draws the most attention from the public and real estate agents; i.e. the first 30 days that it is on the market. A well-trained real estate agent who looks out for your best interests will consult with you on your home’s fair market value and different pricing strategies for the current market.

Myth #2: Minor repairs can wait until later. There are more important things to be done.

Truth: Minor repairs make your house more marketable, allowing you to maximize your return (or minimize loss) on the sale. Most buyers are looking for homes that are ready for them to move into. If your home happens to attract a buyer who is willing to make repairs, he/she will begin asking for repair allowances that come out of your asking price. The amount of an allowance that you have to offer a buyer is usually more than what it would cost for you to make the repair (or hire someone to make the repair). Remember, buyers are comparing your home to other homes that are currently on the market. Your home should be inviting so that everyone who looks at it can see themselves living there.

Myth #3: Once a potential buyer sees the inside of your home, curb appeal won't matter.

Truth: Buyers probably won't make it to the inside of the home if the outside of your home does not appeal to them. Buyers and their agents often do drive-bys before deciding whether a home is worth their time to look inside. Your home’s exterior must make a good first impression so that buyers are compelled to stop and come inside. All it takes is keeping the lawn mowed, shrubs and trees trimmed, gardens weeded and edged, and clutter put away.

Myth #4: Your home must be every home buyer's dream home.

Truth: If you get carried away with repairs and replacements to your home, you may end up over-improving the house. There is a point where improving your home doesn’t pay off. The key is to consider what competing properties feature and look like. A highly-motivated real estate agent will consult with you on what competing properties have to offer – he/she can even show you competing properties so that you can make sound home improvement decisions.

Myth #5: You are better off selling your home on your own and saving money on the commission you would have paid to a real estate agent.

Truth: Statistically, many sellers who attempt to sell their homes on their own cannot consummate the sale without the service of a real estate agent. Homeowners who succeed in selling their home by themselves usually net less than if they had a real estate agent working for them. The National Association of REALTORS surveys consumers every year, including homeowners who succeeded in selling their home without a real estate agent. Over 70% of these homeowners say that they would never do it again.

Myth #6: When you receive an offer, you should make the buyer wait. This gives you a better negotiating position.

Truth: You should reply immediately to an offer! When a buyer makes an offer, that buyer is, at that moment in time, ready to buy your home. Moods can change, and you don't want to lose the sale because you have stalled in replying.

Now that the myths have been uncovered, call 832-647-1769 Today and sell your house Tomorrow!

Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae Announce Relief for Gulf Coast

2010-06-22T12:51:00.000-07:00

Both Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae announced that servicers may grant relief to Gulf Coast borrowers unable to pay their loans because of the current oil spill's impact on their incomes.

Freddie Mac's forbearance policies give servicers the discretion to suspend a borrower's mortgage payments for up to three months or reduce payments for up to six months. Servicers may recommend forbearance for up to twelve months, based on the borrower's individual circumstances.

"Freddie Mac and the nation's mortgage servicers will work together to advance available mortgage relief to homeowners affected by the Deep water Horizon oil spill," said Freddie Mac Senior Vice President of Default Asset Management Ingrid Beckles. "We are instructing our servicers to work with borrowers with Freddie Mac-owned mortgages to extend forbearance of mortgage payments where appropriate to help them stay in their homes as they navigate through this financial hardship."

Under Freddie Mac's requirements servicers must not accrue or collect late charges from the borrower during a short-term forbearance or any subsequent repayment plan period if the borrower is paying according to the forbearance agreement.

Finding the right place just got easier!

2010-06-15T09:02:00.000-07:00

Are you ready to start the search for your new home? I have just the place!
If you’re like most homebuyers today, you’ll want to spend some time researching homes on the Internet before you’re ready to start touring homes.

As I recently shared with you, I made the move to Keller Williams Realty and with that move, my Website was upgraded for buyers just like you. Check it out for yourself: Click Here. You can search through thousands of homes and filter them according to your specific needs – it’s really fun and easy to use!

And, as always, I’m here to provide you with more detailed information about neighborhoods, local home values or details on any of the homes that might catch your eye. Plus, I always have access to the newest homes for sale, often before they even go on the market!

Please let me know when you’re ready to take the next step toward buying your next home!

Call me @ 832-647-1769 Today!

Hurricane Season Is Here...Check Your Insurance Before Disaster Strikes

2010-06-02T06:36:00.000-07:00

Tornados, hurricanes and floods, oh my! We have already seen coverage on the news about tornados and floods, and the experts are predicting this to be a busy hurricane season. Make sure you have your house in order.

Mother Nature often acts less like a mother and more like a destructive force. That’s why there’s homeowner’s insurance.

Here are a few suggestions offered by insurance agents and financial consultants about homeowner’s insurance:

Insurance companies will tailor coverage based on your needs. But make sure your home is insured for at least 100% of its estimated replacement cost. Replacement cost is the rebuilding cost necessary to repair or replace the entire home. It is not just the market value of the home, which is the amount a buyer would pay for the home, including land. To determine the amount of coverage you’ll need, get an estimate of the replacement cost of your house.

Once you have a replacement estimate, ask your agent if your policy includes an automatic inflation adjustment. This protection will adjust your premium to increase coverage in line with construction costs in your area.

Don’t let natural disasters make you a victim. Schedule an appointment with your insurance agent to talk about your individual needs.

Need a referral for a great insurance agent? Give The Newlywed Real Estate Agent a call @ 832-647-1769.

Thinking about making a move? I did!

2010-05-24T11:48:00.000-07:00

My signs may change, my dedication to my clients won’t.

I wanted you to be one of the first to know that I have made the move to real estate leader, Keller Williams Signature.

I look forward to sharing with you how my move makes you making a move easier!

Edmond "Donte" James, Realtor
________________________________________

832-647-1769 (direct)

281-579-4991 (fax)

http://www.thenewlywedrealestateagent.com/

The Numbers Don't Lie

2010-05-21T06:29:00.000-07:00

Look at this scenario:

Purchase Price: $150,000
Down Payment: $5,250 (3.5% of Purchase Price)
Loan Amount: $144,750 (Purchase Price minus Down Payment)
Interest Rate: 4.94% (http://www.bankrate.com/ as of 05/19/2010)
Term: 30 Year Fixed
Payment: $771.75 (Principal and Interest)
Monthly Payment for Taxes and Insurance: $400 (An Estimate)
Mortgage Insurance: $100 (An Estimate)
Total Monthly Payment: $1,271.75

If you have a 620 credit score, money saved for a down payment and closing costs, can document your income, you can own a home. How much are you paying for rent? If it is close to the total monthly payment in this scenario, you could be paying that money towards your own home. Of course the numbers in this scenario can be more or less depending on the purchase price of your new home.

Give The Newlywed Real Estate Agent a call today @ 832-647-1769 to get you and your spouse qualified and approved for your New Home.

The Actual Move

2010-04-26T08:50:00.000-07:00

After you and your spouse have packed, now it is time for the actual move. Choose a moving company. Friends, family and colleagues can give referrals. Get price estimates from at least three companies. Once you've narrowed the companies down, ask for references and check if the mover is registered with the appropriate state Department of Transportation, as are most reputable movers. Confirm local Better Business Bureau ratings as well. Review your homeowner's policy to see if belongings are covered during the move. If not, look into buying extended coverage or insuring through the mover.

If you are moving to a different city, make hotel reservations and book airline tickets about six weeks prior to your move if necessary. Give movers a phone number where you can be reached at all times. Do not leave until you have done a final walk-through to make sure everything is packed.

Finally, be patient. Prepare to unpack and enjoy your New Home.

Did I mention that The Newlywed Real Estate Agent will give you and your spouse an allowance towards your moving expenses? Call 832-647-1769 Today!

Packing Things Up After Saying "I Do"

2010-04-14T08:07:00.000-07:00

You have said "I Do" and now it is time to pack and move the right way.

-Start by streamlining your possessions. Take an honest look at what you own and decide what you need to take with you. Have a garage sale or donate those items you can do without to a local charity.

-Next, take inventory of all the items you plan to move.

-Begin packing items that you don't use daily.

-Pack strategically - load items like the vacuum cleaner and bedding last so they can be the first items to be unloaded. The more organized you are, the better off you'll be when arriving at your new home.

-Do not pack any flammable materials. Many moving companies will not transport items such as gas cans, tanks for grills, paints or even cleaning products.

-Take plants separately or arrange to donate them.

-Set aside valuables such as stocks, legal documents, photos and other irreplaceable items - it's best to transport them personally.

Ready to pack and move into your New Home? Call The Newlywed Real Estate Agent Today @ 832-647-1769.

Two client slots are now open!! $150k or more!!!

2010-04-08T14:35:00.000-07:00

I now have two client slots open where I can be fully committed to providing excellent and efficient service to your real estate needs. If you or someone you know is ready to buy a house of $150K or more or wants to sell a house for $150K or more, please give me a call at 832-647-1769 ASAP or send me an email at donte@RealEstateByEDJ.com or donte@TheNewlywedRealEstateAgent.com with the following information:

Name

Phone

Email

New House Location (Area you're seeking to buy)

Your House Location (Area where you want me to bring my contacts to see your great home!)

Requested Close Date: If you're ready to close, I'm ready to get you closed! Let's go....

Spring is here and these two slots will fill up fast due to the upcoming peak real estate season where everybody is buying and selling!!!!

Please feel free to forward this invitation to your family, friends and co-workers. I look forward to working with you!

P.S. To secure one of these two client slots, send me an email immediately.
P.S.S. I'm only seeking motivated buyers or sellers who are ready to do business with the best. Just to show my appreciation for seriously, motivated clients, here's what you'll get in addition to my excellent service:

-Referral Bonus. You don't need a realtor, but someone you know does. I'll pay you $100 VISA/American Express Gift Card if you send a seriously, motivated client to me who's ready to deal and close!

-Free House Warming Party for Buyers!! I'll pick up the tab on decorations and catering because you deserve a party!

-Let's sell your house and I'll give you an immediate moving allowance up to $250!!!

Remember, only two slots available!!!! Be one of the first to email and you'll get an extra bonus of $50 for being ready to deal and close! I like clients who are just as ready as I am to deal real estate!

Call me @ 832-647-1769.

Pricing Your Home

2010-04-07T07:53:00.000-07:00

After selecting me as your listing agent, pricing your home is the next step. One of the most serious mistakes sellers make is either over or underpricing their home. Overpricing a home scares off buyers by placing the home out of their reach. Underpricing a home may sell the house quickly, but it could unnecessarily cost you money. I will prepare a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) to help give you an idea for an asking price. This will help us avoid the overpricing and underpricing mistake. The analysis shows recent prices received by sellers in nearby areas with homes similar to yours. The CMA will give you an idea about whether it is a buyer's or seller's market. Since a home listing sees the most buyer activity withing the first two to four weeks, it is imperative that we price correctly from day one.

Ready to list your home? Visit http://www.homevaluesinthehoustonarea.com/ to determine your asking price.

Call me @ 832-647-1769

The Closing

2010-04-01T07:11:00.000-07:00

After signing the purchase agreement, several steps occur before you and your spouse obtain ownership, including inspections, title search and examination. When all parties are satisfied that the terms of the contract are met, the closing date is set.

It is at the closing that the ownership of the house is transferred to you and your spouse. The loan will also be closed at this meeting. Everyone involved in the sale of the home is usually present at closing, including the seller and buyer, their attorneys, the real estate professional or brokers involved, and the closing or escrow agents. The closing usaually takes place at the title insurance company's office, lender's office or an attorney's office. You and your spouse may have to pay about 3 to 10 percent of the purchase price of the house in closing costs unless otherwise negotiated. The escrow agent will explain all the closing documents. After all the doc's are signed and the funding is complete, the keys are yours.

All that's left is to enjoy your new home. Does that sound fun? Give The Newlywed Real Estate Agent a call @ 832-647-1769. Let's Get Closing!!!

Selecting A Mortgage Lender

2010-03-25T07:56:00.000-07:00

Chances are you will need to borrow funds from a mortgage lender. In exchange for loaning you those funds, the lender will place a lien against the home. This allows them to foreclose if payments are stopped. The required down payment to purchase a home is usually 3 to 5 percent but can be as much as 10 or 20 percent, depending upon your specific mortgage loan. There are many types of loans including fixed-rate, adjustable-rate and convertible mortgages, as well as various time periods, although 30-year and 15-year mortgages are the most common.

My experience as a mortgage broker is very beneficial at this stage of the buying process. I will help you and your spouse shop around for the loan that is best for your situation and focus on factors such as interest rate, points and processing costs.

Give me a call at 832-647-1769 or send me an email at donte@TheNewlywedRealEstateAgent.com

Next week, we will finish the buying process series with everyone's favorite part...THE CLOSING!

Making An Offer

2010-03-17T07:02:00.000-07:00

Last week, I talked about finding a home that's right for you. After you find that home, the next step is to make an offer. You may choose to set the offering price based on comparable homes on the market (http://www.homevaluesinthehoustonarea.com/) or you can have a professional appraisal done. At this point, my expertise is especially valuable. Once settled on a price, you will have to put the offer in writing using what is called a purchase contract or purchase agreement, which will be presented to the seller. Earnest money or money indicating the seriousness of your offer to purchase may have to be put down with the contract. If the seller rejects the initial offer, you may receive a counteroffer, which marks the beginning of the negotiation phase of the purchase process. This is the fun part. Once you reach an agreement, you will likely require a lender if you are not paying cash. I will talk about selecting a mortgage lender next week.

Give The Newlywed Real Estate Agent a call @ 832-647-1769.

Finding A Home That's Right For You

2010-03-10T08:42:00.000-08:00

When finding the right home there are many considerations. Do you want a condominium? A detached home? Do you prefer one story or more? Making a list of features you require, prefer and find unacceptable can be very helpful. In addition to the home itself, the location of the home should be carefully considered. Think about work commuting times, how close schools are for your children, and if conveniences such as grocery stores and dry cleaners are nearby. Also consider crime statistics, whether there is heavy traffic in the area and if the area is susceptible to flooding. In other words, make sure you consider the entire neighborhood. In addition, make sure you know the value of the home you are considering as it compares to the other homes in the area. Visit http://www.homevaluesinthehoustonarea.com/.

Call The Newlywed Real Estate Agent Today! 832-647-1769

What Is This FREE Report I Am Talking About?

2010-03-03T09:18:00.000-08:00

I am often asked, "How is the real estate market?" If you want to know how the real estate market is in Houston and the Surrounding Area visit http://www.homevaluesinthehoustonarea.com/ to get your FREE market snapshot. What exactly is market snapshot? I am glad you asked. Market Snapshot is the FREE report that gives you detailed information about the real estate market in Houston and the Surrounding Area. For example, the market snapshot tells you what homes are listed for in a particular area, and what homes actually sold for. In addition, the FREE report tells you the average number of days homes are on the market. If you are a buyer, this will help you know when you need to submit an offer on a property that you like, and if you are a seller, this will help you determine how long your home will be on the market before it sells. I am only scatching the surface about all the valuable information that market snapshot provides. For example, I have not talked about the community and school information that is in this report.

To get your FREE-Real Time Market Snapshot Report, visit http://www.homevaluesinthehoustonarea.com/. Fill in your name, email address, the area you are interested in, and some basic information about the home you have or are interested in buying. You can be updated every 2,4,6, or 8 weeks. Stay informed about the real estate market in your current or future neighborhood.

If you have any questions contact me @ 832-647-1769.

The Earlier You Get Started, The Earlier You Can Finish

2010-02-23T07:19:00.000-08:00

The early bird gets the worm. It is always good to start early. From a real estate perspective, the earlier you start saving the earlier you can buy your first home and be on your way to retirement. If you decide that you want to upgrade or downsize, you can sell your first home and use the profit to buy and eventually payoff your next home. The key is saving and buying your first home.

Getting started is usually the hardest part of doing anything. Some mornings, it is hard for me to get out of the bed, but once my feet hit the floor, I am on my way to having a great day.

Let's Get Started!!! 832-647-1769 or donte@TheNewlywedRealEstateAgent.com

Engaged, Newlywed, or Been Married Awhile???

2010-02-16T07:26:00.000-08:00

Allow me to introduce myself to some and reintroduce myself to others...

I am Edmond "Donte" James, The Newlywed Real Estate Agent and I specialize in making couples happy through real estate.

So whether you or someone you know is:

• Engaged, planning a wedding, and ready to buy the perfect house at the same time.

• Engaged, planning a wedding, and wanting to find the perfect rental until you save more money for the perfect house. (Tip: Ask me about the Real Estate Bridal Registry!)

Or

• Newlyweds, glad the wedding planning is over, now you're ready to buy your perfect house.

• Newlyweds, ecstatic that you made it through the wedding, now you just want to find the perfect rental until you save more for the perfect house.

Or

• Married, but still feel like a newlywed and you're ready to buy a new home and/or sell your existing home.

No matter which one of these reflects where you are in your life or someone you may know, the key to a new way of living in Houston, TX and the surrounding areas, is The Newlywed Real Estate Agent!

Whether you're buying, selling, leasing or apartment hunting, Donte - The Newlywed Real Estate Agent can provide you with the kind of specialized VIP service you have come to expect as the new Mr. and Mrs.

So now that you have found the perfect spouse, let Donte - The Newlywed Real Estate Agent, find you or someone you know, the perfect house...or perfect rental.

Let me handle all of your real estate needs, so you can focus on taking care of your spouse's needs!

Learn more about me by visiting my website. Get EDJe-ucated on real estate by subscribing to my blog. Follow me on Twitter. Become a fan on Facebook!

Or you can simply call me at 832-647-1769 or email me at: donte@TheNewlywedRealEstateAgent.com

Look forward to hearing from you, and helping you with all your real estate needs!

Wedding Things To-Do List:

2010-02-08T08:29:00.000-08:00

Now that you have your marriage license, let's complete your to-do list!!!

~The Marriage License
~The Wedding Date
~The Honeymoon
The New Address???

What's going to be the newlywed's new address? Whether you're buying, selling, leasing or apartment hunting, let The Newlywed Real Estate Agent be the key to your new way of living.

Schedule your FREE, NO OBLIGATION newlywed real estate consultation TODAY at 832-647-1769 or donte@TheNewlywedRealEstateAgent.com

Ask The Newlywed Real Estate Agent About The $8,000 Wedding Gift

2010-02-02T07:28:00.000-08:00

First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit

Eligible first-time homebuyers who purchase by April 30, 2010, can qualify for a tax-credit of 10% of a home’s sale price, up to $8,000 for single and joint filers and $4,000 for married individuals filing separately. To qualify, buyers or their spouses may not have owned a residence during the three years prior to the purchase.

New: $6,500 Tax Credit for Current Homeowners

Eligible current homeowners purchasing a home by April 30, 2010, may qualify for a tax credit up to $6,500. To qualify, homeowners must have owned and resided in a home for at least five consecutive years of the eight years prior to the purchase date.

Deadline

Homebuyers must have a written, binding contract to purchase in effect by April 30, 2010, and must close by June 30, 2010.

Contact The Newlywed Real Estate Agent at 832-647-1769 or donte@TheNewlywedRealEstateAgent.com for more details.

Get Your House on the Big Stage after the Big Wedding Day

2010-01-26T07:09:00.000-08:00

If your house is or soon will be on the market after the Big Wedding Day, ask yourself: Is my house staged to sell or lease? Staging your house goes beyond the obvious stuff like cleaning, fixing up, landscaping and interior decorating.

Kahai Tate, an Accredited Staging Professional, says, “Staging is increasing the perceived value of a home by ‘showcasing’ the space, allowing potential homebuyers to mentally move in.” A few staging tips include:

- ridding your house of clutter by either renting storage space or holding a yard sale

- turning on all the lights in the house

- repainting rooms to get rid of personalized colors that may distract buyers

- livening the entrance with cheerful colors and polished exterior lights, lock sets and address numbers

- repurposing unused rooms

Need a real estate agent to help you and your spouse get your house ready for the Big Stage after the Big Wedding Day? Contact The Newlywed Real Estate Agent at 832-647-1769 or at donte@TheNewlywedRealEstateAgent.com

You have to have peace in the home in order to get a piece at night.

2010-01-19T08:20:00.000-08:00

When it comes to buying a house, the wife has the final say in most cases...Sorry husbands. In my experience with working with newlywed and married couples, the wife is in the driver's seat. The husband is just along for the ride. When me and my wife purchased our first house, she picked out the house herself. The only thing I had a say on was the game room. What I have learned is that when the wife is happy, everybody in the house is happy. A minister put it this way, you have to have peace in the home in order to get a piece at night.

So husbands be ready to sign on that dotted line at closing to make your wife happy. Believe me, it will all be worth it.

Give The Newlywed Real Estate Agent a call at 832-647-1769 or send me an email at donte@TheNewlywedRealEstateAgent.com

Rent vs. Sell - What to Do With an Existing Property After You Say "I Do."

2010-01-12T10:14:00.000-08:00

Consider Renting

Today’s rental market is sizzling. If you need to move into another property due to getting married and can accommodate purchasing your new home without the sale of your existing property, now may be the time to consider renting it out.

If being a landlord seems like too much work, using a property-management company is an option. They often charge 10% of monthly rent and what they manage is the renter screenings, building or land maintenance, and collecting rent.

The benefits of renting your existing property include:

- The property’s value can continue to appreciate.

- Money earned in rent collection can pay for the property’s mortgage, insurance, taxes and maintenance.

As you can see, this is a great way to add additional income to the household. Once the market shifts back to a seller's market, then you and your spouse can sell the property and get a bigger profit.

Looking to lease your house. Call The Newlywed Real Estate Agent @ 832-647-1769 or visit http://www.thenewlywedrealestateagent.com/.

Tips for Seasonal Home Maintenance

2010-01-07T09:07:00.000-08:00

Seasonal Home Maintenance

As seasons change, so does your home. New weather signals a new list of home maintenance chores. Here are few simple home tips to remember for each season:

Winter:

- Insert identifiers for your sprinkler system.

- Purchase de-icer and salt.

- Store and drain lawn equipment.

- Seal windows and doors.

- Turn off and drain outdoor faucets.

Spring:

- Plant bulbs.

- Clean gutters.

- Seed the lawn.

- Remove plastic from doors and windows.

- Clean and prep pool.

- Check garden hoses, lawn equipment, etc., for any necessary repairs/replacement.

Summer:

- Replace filters on HVAC.

- Plant flowers.

- Get out lawn furniture.

- Prep grill for cookouts.

- Re-stain deck.

- Flush sediment from your water heater.

- Finish painting projects.

Fall:

- Replace heater filters.

- Flush sprinkler systems.

- Mulch leaves.

- Trim trees and shrubbery.

- Aerate your lawn (midfall in the northern US and early fall in the southern US).

- Turn off power to AC.

Look for Green to Save Green

2010-01-05T09:27:00.000-08:00

When you’re looking for a home, it’s easy to focus on the big stuff – how many bathrooms and bedrooms, what’s the neighborhood like, etc.? But don’t forget that a green home saves more than the environment – it saves money, too.

Here are a few green home items to look for:

1. Does the home have energy efficient windows? Look at window frames, insulated glass material and glass spacers, and check if they’re properly installed.

2. Is there a place in the yard for a compost pile to reduce the home’s trash output?

3. Are there trees at key locations the create shade, beat the summer heat and reduce cooling costs?

4. Are there low-flow faucets and showerheads to help reduce water usage?

5. Is the home drafty? Drafts indicated poor insulation and can cause high heating and cooling bills.

6. Can lighting fixtures use energy-efficient bulbs without looking awkward (such as in some ceiling fixtures). Energy-efficient bulbs can use two-thirds less energy than standard incandescent bulbs and last 10 times as long.

7. Are there Energy Star qualified appliances? Energy Star washers and dryers can reduce energy bills by an average of $50 a year. Qualified washers can reduce yearly water usage by up to 7,000 gallons.

These may not seem like “big picture” qualities to look for in a home, but they add up to significant savings for your wallet and the environment. Give The Newlywed Real Estate Agent a call @ 832-647-1769.

Don't Miss A Great Opportunity in 2010!!!

2010-01-04T07:16:00.000-08:00

This is the first full week of 2010 and many of you have probably made resolutions, set goals, or said those magic words, "THIS IS MY YEAR." Well let me be the first to encourage you to stay the course and make it a great year!

As we all know, the housing and real estate market has seen some of its worst times, but if you are in the market for a new home, now is a great time to buy a home especially if you are a newlywed. You can take advantage of the $8,000 tax credit and if you are a move up buyer you may qualify for the $6,500 tax credit. Interest Rates are extremely low! So don't believe the hype that now is the time to sit still. As you read this, great deals are being made and many more Americans who have good credit and a down payment are getting a 'steal-of-a-deal' because of the overwhelming amount of inventory currently available. So YES! It's a great time to buy a home!

It's also an excellent time to refinance your home. Low interest rates are not only good for the home buyer, it's a great opportunity for existing homeowners to secure a lower interest rate on their current mortgage.

Whether you are in the market for a new home for the first time, you are a move up buyer, or you and your spouse are looking to purchase an investment property, The Newlywed Real Estate Agent is poised in 2010 to help you all the way! So in 2010, when you think real estate, think The Newlywed Real Estate Agent! And YES, we still appreciate all your referrals. Give us a call at 832-647-1769.

Are you ready for homeownership?

2009-12-08T08:18:00.000-08:00

Tired of renting? Homeownership does have its advantages:

- Ability to deduct mortgage interest on your tax return.

- Home values generally appreciate over time.

- You can avoid increases in your monthly payment — something you can't avoid while paying rent.

You just may be ready to make the big step. But before you start collecting paint chips and fabric swatches, collect your thoughts around more practical matters — in particular, money matters.

The first question to ask yourself is “How much can I afford to spend on a home?” Purchasing a home at a price you can afford is key to successful homeownership.

I can help you figure out your maximum affordable home price. Give me a call @ 832-647-1769 or drop me a line at donte@TheNewlywedRealtor.com, and we’ll get you set on the path to homeownership.

Can you afford homeownership?

2009-12-07T08:18:00.000-08:00

Are you thinking about buying a home, but don’t know whether or how well you can afford it? The best way to find out how much home you can afford is to prequalify for a mortgage.

Prequalifying for a mortgage is just a fancy way of saying “figuring out how much you can afford to spend on a home.”

Prequalifying shows you where you stand financially, based upon your current income, debt and savings. In doing so, you can determine:

- an estimate of a home purchase price and monthly house payment that you can afford,

- how much money you will need for the down payment (the difference between the sales price and the amount of your mortgage), and

- budgeting goals you need to set and achieve.

I can help you prequalify for a mortgage. (Please know that prequalifying is not a commitment on your part to work with me. It also does not guarantee you a loan. That all happens during the actual loan application process.)

Give me a call @ 832-647-1769 or drop me a line at donte@TheNewlywedRealtor.com, and we’ll get you moving toward moving day in no time!

Cutting Household Expenses In 2010

2009-12-04T07:53:00.001-08:00

PSA: Check your household expenses and see what bills you can lower. Make a few phone calls to see if they are offering you the best deal. I did it and it was well worth the time. Life is all about what you negotiate. Treat your household like a business and see where you can cut cost in the new year.

Dream Home

2009-12-03T08:20:00.000-08:00

Once you’re ready to start looking for a home, think carefully about what you want — there is so much to consider: Sales price, Neighborhood, Distance to work, schools, shopping.

If you have children, you may want to know if there are other kids in the neighborhood and whether schools and playgrounds are nearby. As a working person, distance and travel time to and from work or the availability of public transportation may be a factor.

You’ll also want to consider the condition of the plumbing, heating, electrical systems, and whether these are up to code. Closet space. Number of bedrooms. The list goes on and on.

As a real estate agent, I know the local market and have information about such things as school systems, tax rates, water and sewer charges, public transportation and other concerns that might affect your decision to buy a particular home.

If you’re in the market for a home, please give me a call @ 832-647-1769 or send me an e-mail @ donte@TheNewlywedRealtor.com

Stop Paying Rent, Invest in Your Future

2009-12-02T08:33:00.000-08:00

Today may be the best time to buy in many years, especially if you plan to stay in your home for approximately five or more years. If you think you should keep renting because of the state of today's housing market, think again. Talk to any homeowner who purchased their home ten or more years ago. It's unlikely that they could buy their home today for what they originally paid.

Financial benefits to home ownership include: equity increase due to appreciation, principal reduction and home improvements, and tax benefits.

Personal benefits include: pride of ownership, stability, security, freedom to occupy or rent the home, and much more.

Your new home may be closer than you think. Call 832-647-1769 today for a free analysis of your situation, and learn how easily you may be able to afford your own home.

Homebuyer Tax Credit Extended & Expanded

2009-12-01T08:29:00.000-08:00

First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Extended through April 2010

Eligible first-time homebuyers who purchase by April 30, 2010, can qualify for a tax-credit of 10% of a home’s sale price, up to $8,000 for single and joint filers and $4,000 for married individuals filing separately. To qualify, buyers or their spouses may not have owned a residence during the three years prior to the purchase.

New: $6,500 Tax Credit for Current Homeowners through April 2010

Eligible current homeowners purchasing a home between Nov. 7, 2009, and April 30, 2010, may qualify for a tax credit up to $6,500. To qualify, homeowners must have owned and resided in a home for at least five consecutive years of the eight years prior to the purchase date.

Dollar-for-Dollar Reduction

These tax credits are straight, dollar-for-dollar reduction of the buyers’ tax bills and will be paid out to eligible taxpayers, even if they owe no tax, or the credit is more than the tax that they owe.

Eligible Properties

Tax credits may be applied to any home that will be used as a primary residence, including single-family homes, condos and townhomes. The purchase price may not exceed $800,000, and the home cannot be purchased from other family members (parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren, etc.) or a spouse or a spouse’s family members.

Expanded Income Limits

Effective Nov. 7, 2009, single buyers with incomes up to $125,000 and married couples with incomes up to $225,000 may receive the maximum tax credit. The amount is reduced for buyers with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) above those limits.

Buyers with an MAGI of more than $145,000 (single) or $245,000 (married) are not eligible. First-time homebuyers who purchased between Jan. 1, 2009, and Nov. 6, 2009, are subject to income limits in place prior to the extension of the tax credit. For married couples filing a joint return, that was an adusted gross income (AGI) of $150,000 or less; and all others, an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $75,000 or less.

Deadline
Homebuyers must have a written, binding contract to purchase in effect by April 30, 2010, and must close by June 30, 2010.

NOTE: This is only a brief summary of the First-Time Homebuyer and Current Homebuyer Tax Credit, intended for informational purposes only. This summary does not constitute tax, accounting or legal advice of any kind. Because other terms and conditions may apply to any individual taxpayer, individuals should consult their independent tax advisor to ascertain whether they are eligible for this tax credit. Although this summary is generally accurate, we do not warrant the accuracy, reliability or completeness of this summary. More information regarding the tax credit is available from the Internal Revenue Service at www.irs.gov.

You Down With OPM (Other People's Money)

2009-09-22T08:03:00.000-07:00

Good to Excellent Credit can get you into alot of places. Like a new home. You down with OPM (Other People's Money) Using other people's money to get what you want. So don't let that $100 cable bill or cell phone bill go to collections. That $100 can hinder you from getting those keys to your new home.

Who Is EDJ As A Mortgage Broker?

2009-08-26T20:40:00.000-07:00

EDJ Mortgage & Wealth Strategies is a full-service mortgage brokerage firm offering expertise in every area of mortgage lending...from purchase to refinance. We have access to a full range of mortgage sources and all of our lending specialists are dedicated to finding the right loan - with the best rates, terms and costs - to meet your unique needs. But that's just part of the service we offer. EDJ Mortgage & Wealth Strategies also provides a strategic EDJe for paying off your mortgage loan faster so you can use that money to build wealth and live with the peace of mind of a paid-off mortgage. That’s right, EDJ Mortgage & Wealth Strategies can assist you with your home loan, and we now provide the EDJe on successfully building wealth beyond the home loan experience!

Edmond Donte' James, owner of EDJ Mortgage & Wealth Strategies, brings an extensive amount of financial experience and expertise to the company. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from Delta State University, and a Master of Business Administration in Finance from LeTourneau University. His previous experience as an accountant and mortgage loan officer, and his drive to help others succeed, gives him the "EDJe" on helping his clients build wealth to achieve personal financial well-being. By incorporating a financial planning and consultative approach within the business, EDJ helps clients reach their true dreams...wealth accumulation.

What Is A Mortgage Broker?

2009-08-26T20:37:00.000-07:00

I am often asked, “What is a mortgage broker and why should I have one?” By definition, a mortgage broker arranges financing for a borrower by placing loans with lenders. Mortgage brokers are paid a fee by the borrower and/or the lender when a loan closes. Why should you have a mortgage broker or more specifically, why should you have me as your mortgage broker? Glad you asked. Just like you have a doctor or lawyer on-call should something come up, you should have a mortgage broker that you can call on for all your real estate needs. As a mortgage broker, I am able to answer any of your real estate financing questions because of my expertise in the industry. Why should you get your financing through a mortgage broker? Because I have access to a vast number of lenders that offer different mortgage products based on your credit scores. I also have access to lenders that offer commercial loans.

All of these lenders offer me interest rates that are wholesale, which are usually lower than interest rates offered in a retail environment. One of the biggest advantages to working with a mortgage broker like myself, is that I am able to “shop” for the best loan that meets your financial needs without the risk of pulling your credit report multiple times.

Here’s how it works: You are interested in financing your new home/business or refinancing your existing home. After meeting with you to discuss your financing needs, I get your permission to pull your credit report. My lenders will use that "one" credit report to determine what interest rate and terms you qualify for. Now, if you decided to go to your personal bank for a mortgage loan, that personal bank will only have access to their products, while as a mortgage broker, I have access to multiple loan products. Therefore, if you do not qualify for your personal bank’s loan programs or do not like the interest rate your personal bank is offering, then you will have to seek another source for financing your mortgage loan, which will result in another inquiry on your credit report. We discussed how multiple inquiries can decrease your credit scores and you don’t want that to happen!

EDJ Mortgage pulls your credit one time and is able to offer you a very competitive rate and term based on your financial needs. One of the other things about working with me is that, as the mortgage broker of EDJ Mortgage & Wealth Strategies, I am able to control some of the fees and even the interest rates. So it pays, literally, to have me as your mortgage broker. Your EDJe on building wealth starts right away when you work with mortgage broker EDJ!

Find out if now is the right time to refinance!!!

2009-07-20T06:45:00.000-07:00

You may be able to lower your monthly payments or reduce the time it takes to pay off your loan. You may also be able to save even more if you use your refinance proceeds to pay off credit card or other installment debt, since mortgage interest is usually 100% tax-deductible, and interest on consumer debt is not. Here are some important reasons to consider refinancing:

Get a lower mortgage rate and reduce interest costs.
Convert an adjustable rate mortgage to a secure, fixed-rate mortgage.
Consolidate your first and second mortgages into a mortgage with a lower rate.
Get cash for family wants and needs.

The advantages we offer you for your refinancing needs include:

Low rates
Easy online application
All types of mortgage programs
Guidance and advice from an experienced loan professional

Visit www.edjmortgage.com Today!!!

Forclosures On The Rise

2009-07-16T06:07:00.000-07:00

If you have been looking at the news the past few months, I am sure you have heard about the difficulties in the mortgage and real estate industry. There are a lot of homeowners that are facing foreclosure. The reason that most people are facing foreclosure is because of the type of mortgage that they have in particular the Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM). Many homeowners purchased their home two to five years ago using the adjustable rate mortgage, and now that interest rate is adjusting up. If you remember, I talked about adjustable rate mortgages in an earlier issue of The EDJe-ucator. The increase in the interest rate causes the mortgage payments to increase which makes it difficult for the homeowner to make their monthly payments. An adjustable rate mortgage can be a budget buster, and I know that you have been sticking with your budget.

If you are a homeowner, my advice would be for you to make sure you know what type of mortgage you have, i.e. a fixed rate mortgage or an adjustable rate mortgage. If you are in the market and looking to purchase a new home, make sure you know the difference between an adjustable rate and fixed rate mortgage. If you know of anyone with an ARM that it is getting ready to adjust, have them to give me a call at 1-877-469-3353 or 832-647-1769. I am sure it is in their best interest that they refinance to a fix rate mortgage. If the homeowner is unable to refinance and is having difficulty making their mortgage payment, he/she should contact their current mortgage company and try to set up a payment plan. This might hurt your credit scores, but at least you will not lose your home. Banks and mortgage companies really don't want to foreclose on your house because the foreclosure process can be very expensive and sometimes they actually lose money. Banks and mortgage companies are not in the business of foreclosing on houses and trying to re-sell them. They are in the business of lending money. If you contact your bank or mortgage company, sometimes they are willing to work out an agreement with you.

For the record, I am not totally against adjustable rate mortgages. There are a couple of occasions I will recommend an adjustable rate mortgage to a client. The first occasion is if the borrower knows that they are not going to occupy the house for a long period of time. In this case, the borrower can take advantage of the lower interest rate of the adjustable rate mortgage, and sell the house before the interest rate adjusts. The second occasion is only for "discipline" borrowers. In this case, maybe your credit is not strong as it should be. I might recommend that the borrower consider an adjustable rate mortgage and take advantage of the lower interest rate. While on the adjustable rate mortgage, the borrower must work on their credit to improve the scores and never be late on their mortgage. Before the interest rate adjusts, the borrower can refinance to a fix rate mortgage.

Thank you for reading The EDJe-ucator. If you have any questions or referrals, call 1-877-469-3353 or 832-647-1769 email donte@RealEstateByEDJ.com.

Say "Good Bye" To Your Landlord

2009-07-14T13:17:00.000-07:00

Owning your own home provides several benefits. In addition to the satisfaction of being a homeowner, you can build equity, enjoy tax deductions, say "good bye" to your landlord and take control of your living environment. Whether you are a first-time home buyer, renter, or are purchasing a new or second home, we have an assortment of tools and loan programs to meet your individual financing needs.

We can help you realize your homeownership dreams by offering you all the best advantages:
Low Rates
Easy Online Application
All types of Mortgage Programs
Guidance and Advice From an Experienced Mortgage Broker/Realtor

Determine how much you can borrow and buy with our pre-qualification consultation. You can beat the competition and negotiate more effectively when you're pre-approved. Apply online at www.edjmortgage.com now to be pre-approved. Call EDJ Toll Free 1-877-469-3353 or 832-647-1769

Now Is A Great Time To Buy

2009-07-13T06:25:00.000-07:00

That's right...now is a great time to buy. In today's real estate market, there is a huge number of homes for sell. No matter what neighborhood you live in, I am sure that you have seen a for sale sign in the front yard of many homes. With this influx in housing inventory in the market, many sellers are willing to negotiate in the buyers favor. With that being said, there are some major bargains available for home buyers.

If you are already a home owner, now is also a great time to purchase your first investment property. As you know, one of the most common ways to building wealth is through real estate. When you purchase a property at a bargain price and it is worth alot more, then you have equity in that property. Since it is a buyers market right now, I would recommend that you rent the property. As a result of the increase in foreclosures, alot of families are losing their home, but these families still need a place to live. Once the market becomes a seller's market, you can sell your investment/rental property or you can continue to rent the property. Either way, you are building wealth. If you want "The EDJe On Building Wealth", contact Edmond Donte' James at 832-647-1769 or 1-877- 469-3353 or email me at donte@RealEstateByEDJ.com.

How Can EDJ Help You As A Realtor?

2009-07-06T18:05:00.000-07:00

Most of us think we know the role of a realtor, right? You're buying a house, you need a realtor to help you. You're selling a house, you need a realtor to list your home. But what about apartment locating, did you know realtors can help you with that? Leasing a home can also be done with a realtor. Ready to open your business and need to lease or buy a commercial space? It's all about location, location, location! Are you an investor looking to take advantage of the current foreclosure market? Contact EDJ for the latest foreclosure information.

Whether you knew the role of a realtor or not, I am here to "Give You the EDJe on Real Estate." With my extensive experience as a mortgage broker and my ability to "Give you the EDJe on Building Wealth," I am ahead of the pack of realtors because I am always working to put you in the best wealth building position. From getting you the best residential purchase price to helping you get the most for your home, I am always focused on your wealth strategy in every step of the real estate process. Even if you are not ready to purchase a home or sell a home, but are more interested in leasing a home or apartment, I can provide that EDJe to help you build wealth even while you are LEASING...who else can do that for you?

I am thrilled and excited to offer this real estate service to you, your family and friends through my affiliation with Realm Real Estate Professionals. When you think real estate, think Real Estate by EDJ...where you know you are guaranteed to get that EDJe!

Got a real estate referral, please contact Edmond Donte' James at 832-647-1769 or 1-877- 469-3353 or email me at donte@RealEstateByEDJ.com

$8,000 First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit

2009-06-29T15:56:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer:

The following $8,000 First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Q&A is from a RealtyTrac.com email dated June 29, 2009.

Q&A

When do I need to purchase to qualify?

If you buy a home between Jan. 1 and Dec. 1 this year and close escrow during these dates, you will qualify for an $8,000 tax credit - as long as it is your primary residence and you meet the simple requirements.

How does the law define "first-time homebuyer"?

The law defines "first-time homebuyer" as a buyer who has not owned a principal residence during the three-year period prior to the purchase.

What are other requirements to qualify?

All U.S. citizens who file taxes are eligible to participate. An income limit of $75,000 a year for individuals and $150,000 a year for joint filers also applies.

How do I apply for the credit?

Taxpayers should use IRS Tax Form 5450 to claim the first-time homebuyer tax credit.

Does the credit have to be repaid?

No. Unlike a similar tax credit passed in 2008, this $8,000 tax credit does not have to be repaid to the IRS.

Can I use the tax credit toward a down payment or other closing costs?

Yes. An announcement made May 29 allows the tax credit to be used toward purchase costs of a home, including down payment in some cases. This can be done one of two ways. First, buyers using an FHA-approved lender can sell their anticipated tax credit to the lender and use the proceeds to immediately apply the tax credit to any down payment above the minimum down payment of 3.5 percent required with FHA-insured mortgages. Second, buyers who receive financing through state housing finance agencies and certain non-profits will be able to use the tax credit for their down payments via a tax credit advance loan that does not result in any cash back to the buyer.

Source: RealtyTrac.com

Today's Economy

2009-06-24T05:54:00.000-07:00

If you have been reading the blog posts for the past few days, you remember me talking about saving, creating a budget, the importance of having excellent credit scores, and having the right mortgage. With the condition of today's economy, it is critical to have a financial plan for you and your family. In regards to saving, many experts now are saying that you need to have 9 to 12 months saved for monthly expenses instead of the usual 3 to 6 months. Again, a way to save is to create a budget and account for every dollar that is being spent on a monthly basis. Over the last few months, the housing market has changed tremendously. With that being said, it is important to work on your credit scores to get that excellent credit. If you are not doing so, start paying your bills on time and pay down debt. Last but not least, it is imperative to have the right mortgage. If you have an adjustable rate mortgage and your payments are increasing, now is the time to refinance to a fixed rate mortgage. CALL EDJ TODAY!!! If you are looking to buy or sell a home, CALL EDJ TODAY!!!

If you have any questions or comments, please contact Edmond Donte' James at 832-647-1769 or 1-877-469-3353 or email me at donte@RealEstateByEDJ.com.

Escrow Accounts

2009-06-22T19:56:00.000-07:00

When you have an escrow account, the mortgage company will pay your property taxes and homeowner's insurance for you. When you make your monthly mortgage payment, a portion of the payment goes towards your escrow account. If you look at your statement, you should have a breakdown of how much goes into the escrow account. Always know how much is in your escrow account. If your escrow account goes into the negative, your mortgage payments will go up. The reason your escrow account is in the negative is because you did not have enough money in the account to cover the property taxes and/or homeowner's insurance when the mortgage company made those payments. As a result, the mortgage company increases your monthly payment to make up the difference in the escrow account, and to make sure you have enough money in the account when your taxes and insurance are due again. If you notice that there is a shortage in your escrow account before the mortgage company pays your taxes and insurance, I would recommend that you send in extra money to be put into the escrow account. On the other hand, if you have an overage in the escrow account, the mortgage company will either refund you the overage or keep the money in the escrow account and decrease your monthly payments.

Should you have an escrow account? If you are good with money management, then you can actually set up your own escrow account in the form of a savings account and pay your taxes and insurance on your own. If money management is not one of your strengths, then I would recommend having an escrow account. That way, the mortgage company will pay your taxes and insurance for you, and you do not have to worry about coming up with money when the taxes and insurance are due.

Your 2009 Progress Report

2009-06-17T09:38:00.000-07:00

Did you make any New Year's resolutions for 2009? If so, now is a great time for you to do a progress report. In the previous blog posts, we have talked about establishing excellent credit, creating a budget, buying your first home or investment property, having the right mortgage, avoiding foreclosure, and a number of other topics.

With that being said, I have a few questions to make you go HMMM!!! Have you worked on getting excellent credit, have you been sticking to your budget, have you purchased your first home or investment property, and do you have the right mortgage? I almost forgot the most important question, have you sent any referrals to EDJ? If you answered "No" to any of these questions, then we have a lot of work to do the second half of 2009. The great news is that the year is not over, so get in the game and make it happen.

If you want "The EDJe On Real Estate", please contact Edmond Donte' James at 832-647-1769 or 1-877- 469-3353 or email me at donte@RealEstateByEDJ.com.

What Is Wealth Strategies?

2009-06-15T09:29:00.000-07:00

The EDJ Philosophy is an eight step plan to wealth strategies. The first strategy to building wealth is paying your tithes. My belief is if you pay God what He is owed, He will in return bless you, your family, your business, and your career. Next, live on a budget. We talked about creating a budget earlier. If you have a budget, then you have a sense of what your monthly household expenses are, and how much discretionary funds you have available at the end of every month.Thirdly, pay-off all your debts excluding your mortgage. We will get to paying off the mortgage later. If you have a budget, then you can use some of those discretionary funds to pay-off your debts.

Fourth, start a savings and retirement plan. Once you pay-off your debts, you can use that extra money to contribute to a savings and/or retirement account. Fifth, you should have good to excellent credit. If you have paid your debts off, this will help your credit scores, which brings me to my sixth strategy, having the right mortgage. How do you get the right mortgage? First you call EDJ Mortgage & Wealth Strategies. With good to excellent credit, you will get a great interest rate. This will save you tons of money in interest. Another thought about having the right mortgage, you can get a great deal on the purchase price of a property. But if you get the wrong mortgage, this will totally negate the fact that you negotiated a good deal. The seventh strategy is paying off your mortgage early. Ways to pay your mortgage off early are to do bi-weekly payments, or make extra payments towards the principal. If you have been following EDJ's wealth strategies, you can use the extra money that you have to make extra payments towards the principal. Edmond Donte' James is a realtor and mortgage broker that does not want you to be broke because of your mortgage.

Finally, you should acquire real estate. The majority of the successful financial people that I know and read about have real estate in their portfolio. You can either acquire real estate and sell it for a profit or have rental properties. Again, if you have been following EDJ's wealth strategies, you should have good to excellent credit which will allow you to obtain financing to get these properties, and pay them off early.

This is EDJ's philosophy on building wealth. Call EDJ and let me give you that EDJe.

Advantages Of Home Ownership

2009-06-10T06:08:00.000-07:00

The first advantage of owning your home is the fact that you achieve that great "American Dream" of home ownership. As you know, home ownership is an important component to building wealth.

Secondly, there are also tax benefits to owning your home. The interest that you pay on your mortgage is tax deductible when you file your taxes every year.

The third advantage is every time you make your mortgage payment, you are gaining equity in your home because you are paying down your principal balance. In addition, most real estate appreciates, so this is another way to gain equity in your home. If you decide to sell your home, you will walk away from the closing with a profit because you have been paying your mortgage principal down every month and the value of your home has increased from when you first purchased it.

Finally, when you own your home, you are making an investment in your community and an investment in your financial future. This investment will assure you a great return, but to guarantee that great return, you must first obtain the right financing. To get the right financing and the best deal for your home, call EDJ today at 832-647-1769 or 1-877-469-3353!!! June is a good month to start building your wealth. CALL EDJ TODAY!

Creating A Budget

2009-06-03T19:29:00.000-07:00

My first question to you is, how much do you spend each month on household expenses? If you don’t know, I would recommend that you create an excel spreadsheet that lists all your expenses (i.e. mortgage/rent, car note, credit cards, insurance, student loans, cable, electricity, gas, phone, cell phone, water, etc.). You should also be tracking how much you spend each month on each bill.

In addition to your household expenses, establish a monthly budget for your groceries and entertainment. Next, determine your total monthly household income. Now, subtract your total expenses from your total income (Hopefully this is a positive number). If this is a positive number, this is considered your discretionary funds. My recommendation is that you put a percentage or certain amount of your discretionary funds in some type of savings account. This savings account can be used for your emergency funds. Each household should have 9 to 12 months of monthly expenses saved in case of an emergency or life changing circumstance (i.e. sickness, losing a job, etc.).

If you are already doing this, CONGRATULATIONS! You already have “The EDJe On Building Wealth.” If you do not have a household budget, NOW would be a great time to start building wealth.

What Are Your Credit Scores?

2009-06-03T19:22:00.000-07:00

What are your credit scores? I always tell my clients, just like you are supposed to have an annual physical, you should also check your credit at least once a year. Your credit scores follow you everywhere you go. There are even companies that pull your credit report before they hire you. If your credit isn’t good to excellent, it could prevent you from getting that job.

You have three credit scores from three different credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union. The 3 reasons you need to review your credit scores are: 1) Make sure your identity has not been stolen. 2) Make sure everything is accurate on your credit report. 3) Know what your scores are so you can clean up your credit. Here are some of the ways to increase your credit scores: 1) Look for any past due balances on the credit report and bring them current 2) Pay off past dues and charge-offs within the last two years 3) Reduce all outstanding debt to as close to a zero balance as possible. If you are unable to pay all debt down, try to keep balances below 50% of available credit. For example, if your available credit is $1000, you want to keep your balance below $500, but keeping it below 30% or $300 would be even better. Also do not close existing accounts. 4) Too many inquiries for credit will negatively impact the score.

Certain low credit scores can hinder you from buying a home, but if you check your credit every year and dispute any inaccuracies on your report in a timely fashion, you can be assured of maintaining good to excellent credit scores. If you are seeking to purchase a home, your should acquire a credit report from Real Estate By EDJ. Knowing Your Credit Scores is the 1st Step toward purchasing your new home!

Still a Great Time to Buy Real Estate

2009-04-01T16:11:00.000-07:00

Contrary to the news media reports, now is still a great time to buy real estate. There is a plethora of inventory that sellers are ready to off load, including my current listing picutred here.

As we kick off the new Spring Season, the economy still has been the main topic of discussion around many dinner tables. As we all know, the housing and real estate market is seeing some of its worst times, but if you are in the market for a new home, now is a great time to buy a home. Interest Rates are at an all-time low! So don't believe the hype that now is the time to sit still. As you read this, great deals are being made and many more Americans who have good credit and a down payment are getting a 'steal-of-a-deal' So YES! It's definitely a great time to buy a home!

Already have a home? It's an excellent time to refinance your home. Low interest rates are not only good for the home buyer, it's a great opportunity for existing homeowners to secure a lower interest rate on their current mortgage.

Whether you are in the market for a new home or need to refinance your current home, EDJ is poised to help you all the way! EDJ is a one stop shop with our mortgage office ready to finance you and our real estate office ready to help you find your new home or investment property.
When you think real estate, think EDJ! And YES, we still appreciate all your referrals. Give us a call at 1-877-469-3353 or email me at donte@realestatebyedj.com

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Welcome to Real Estate by EDJ!

2009-01-22T07:45:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Real Estate by EDJ blog site where you will be EDJe-ucated on everything real estate! At Real Estate by EDJ, we'll give you insight into the real estate market, share our tips for real estate, showcase homes for sale, and essentially provide you with a one-stop shop for all things real estate!

Whether you are in the market for a new home or need to refinance your current home, EDJ is poised in 2009 to help you all the way! EDJ is a one-stop shop with our mortgage office ready to finance you and our real estate office ready to help you find your new home or investment property.

So in 2009 and beyond, when you think real estate, think EDJ!

Got real estate questions or need a realtor, email me at donte@RealEstatebyEDJ.com
Need to refinance or get financing for a new home, email me at djames@edjmortgage.com
Or just give us a call at 1-877-4MYEDJe! That's 1-877-469-3353