Good news for former Washington Mutual loan holders:
Today, JP Morgan Chase, who recently bought WAMU in the largest bank failure in United States history, announced they will hault foreclosure proceedings for 90 days for eligible homeowners.
The move comes at a critical point in the housing sector and is a win-win for both struggling homeowners and banks. An estimated 400,000 homeowners could avoid foreclosure and stay in their homes by renegotiating interest rates and loan terms amounting to roughly $70 billion.
The programs will apply to people who live in their homes and have sub-prime mortgages, pay-option mortgages or negative amortization loans. The company said these loans could be changed to 30-year loans, fixed rate loans or even interest only loans, depending on each individual situation.
Look for other banks to follow suit:
With Chase setting the example, look for Bank of America who purchased Countrywide and Wells Fargo who bought Wachovia (both of which held high levels of bad sub-prime debts) to make similar programs available for their clients.
Keeping foreclosure rates low is a key step to stabilize the struggling real estate market and help the banks reduce their bad debts and reestablish good lending practices.
It's a step long overdue by the banks but will soon be certain to many, extremely necessary!
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Monday, October 6, 2008
The Citron - 3% Agent Incentive in October!
With only a few select models still available in the luxurious modern condos, our seller is providing a 3% commission incentive to all participating buyers' agents who open escrow in any of the remaining units through the end of October.
Updated open house hours:
Tuesdays: 11-2pm
Sundays: 2-5pm
For any private showings feel free to contact Joseph at 310-985-4746
Updated open house hours:
Tuesdays: 11-2pm
Sundays: 2-5pm
For any private showings feel free to contact Joseph at 310-985-4746
Monday, September 22, 2008
A Busy Month for The Shamash Team
Despite the strong concerns of our current real estate market and what seems to be constant turmoil in our financial sector, The Shamash Team is forging ahead and has entered into 3 escrows this past month.
Beginning with a 4-unit complex on West Blvd that was one step away from falling into foreclosure, we were able to close escrow a few weeks ago despite the arduous process of dealing with a short sale and bank approval.
The next sale was a probate tear down in the heart of the Beverlywood adjacent area. The sellers were asking only for all cash offers and held only one showing of the house. If you could have only witnessed the scene as over 30 prospective buyers and agents were waiting patiently to view the house one at a time.
And yes, our offer was the one that was accepted!
Lastly, we represented a buyer for a 2 bed/2bath condo in the new Kosher-condo development on Shenandoah, which is scheduled to close this week.
While many prospective buyers are waiting on the sidelines during the down swing of the market, there are still plenty of deals available with sellers who are willing to negotiate.
Hopefully, the next deal will be yours and The Shamash Team will be there to represent you!
Beginning with a 4-unit complex on West Blvd that was one step away from falling into foreclosure, we were able to close escrow a few weeks ago despite the arduous process of dealing with a short sale and bank approval.
The next sale was a probate tear down in the heart of the Beverlywood adjacent area. The sellers were asking only for all cash offers and held only one showing of the house. If you could have only witnessed the scene as over 30 prospective buyers and agents were waiting patiently to view the house one at a time.
And yes, our offer was the one that was accepted!
Lastly, we represented a buyer for a 2 bed/2bath condo in the new Kosher-condo development on Shenandoah, which is scheduled to close this week.
While many prospective buyers are waiting on the sidelines during the down swing of the market, there are still plenty of deals available with sellers who are willing to negotiate.
Hopefully, the next deal will be yours and The Shamash Team will be there to represent you!
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Ed McMahon's House
For all of you who are watching the real estate market there is a true gem out there that is enshrined in Hollywood history. Yes, it's Ed McMahon's house in Beverly Hills and it's about to go into foreclosure!
As you might have heard, the McMahon's are in some serious financial trouble and if they don't sell their house within the next 2 weeks, they will lose their home and a lot of their personal property as well.
Here's the catch...it's a short sale at $4.6 million and it needs to be sold quickly!
If anyone knows a buyer in this price range, I am more than happy to split the commission with you!
Some features of the property include:
- 6 bedrooms & 5.5 baths
- 7,013 sq feet of living space situated on a 15,000 sq ft lot
- The Summit - The Prestigious Gated community in Beverly Hills
- Price reduced $1.9 million last week!
As you might have heard, the McMahon's are in some serious financial trouble and if they don't sell their house within the next 2 weeks, they will lose their home and a lot of their personal property as well.
Here's the catch...it's a short sale at $4.6 million and it needs to be sold quickly!
If anyone knows a buyer in this price range, I am more than happy to split the commission with you!
Some features of the property include:
- 6 bedrooms & 5.5 baths
- 7,013 sq feet of living space situated on a 15,000 sq ft lot
- The Summit - The Prestigious Gated community in Beverly Hills
- Price reduced $1.9 million last week!
Monday, July 7, 2008
Rent Increases - To be or not to be?
As a property owner in Santa Monica, California, this is the time of year when we get our annual notification of the City's maximum allowable rent increases to our tenants.
This year the City has allowed an increase of 2.7% for tenants who have been occupying a unit for at least 1 year and the term of their lease has expired or reached a month-to-month status.
And while these increases, if only at marginal amounts, are welcomed by landlords who seek positive cash flow and further relief from their massive mortgage payments, the dilemma lies in who deserves a rent increase.
Does the good tenant who pays his rent on time, takes great care of the property and calls whenever there is a problem warrant a rent increase if his unit is below market value?
And with soaring gas and food prices, inflation knocking on our doorstep and an economy that is screaming RECESSION, who bears the grunt of the financial responsibility...the Landlord who relies on rents to satisfy his payments or the good Tenant?
Well if you ask the City of Santa Monica, their answer is clear: It's the wealthy, property owning Landlord vs. the unfortunate Tenant.
So what's the solution?
It's hard not to take into account market forces of supply and demand in situations like this. If a unit is being rented out below market value and the terms of the lease have expired, there is no logical reasoning why the rents shouldn't be justifiably increased to reflect the current conditions.
Furthermore, with the current and unforseeable trend in higher gas prices, there is an increasing demand for rental units in the Westside. And if an extra $50 a month is an insurmountable expense for a tenant, then there are others waiting for their departure.
But for the landlord with the great tenants, the answer is simple.
You give all tenants their maximum allowable rent increase in compliance with the City's law but if they truly deserve that money back, give them a refund during the holiday season with a note saying, "Thanks for being such a great tenant."
This year the City has allowed an increase of 2.7% for tenants who have been occupying a unit for at least 1 year and the term of their lease has expired or reached a month-to-month status.
And while these increases, if only at marginal amounts, are welcomed by landlords who seek positive cash flow and further relief from their massive mortgage payments, the dilemma lies in who deserves a rent increase.
Does the good tenant who pays his rent on time, takes great care of the property and calls whenever there is a problem warrant a rent increase if his unit is below market value?
And with soaring gas and food prices, inflation knocking on our doorstep and an economy that is screaming RECESSION, who bears the grunt of the financial responsibility...the Landlord who relies on rents to satisfy his payments or the good Tenant?
Well if you ask the City of Santa Monica, their answer is clear: It's the wealthy, property owning Landlord vs. the unfortunate Tenant.
So what's the solution?
It's hard not to take into account market forces of supply and demand in situations like this. If a unit is being rented out below market value and the terms of the lease have expired, there is no logical reasoning why the rents shouldn't be justifiably increased to reflect the current conditions.
Furthermore, with the current and unforseeable trend in higher gas prices, there is an increasing demand for rental units in the Westside. And if an extra $50 a month is an insurmountable expense for a tenant, then there are others waiting for their departure.
But for the landlord with the great tenants, the answer is simple.
You give all tenants their maximum allowable rent increase in compliance with the City's law but if they truly deserve that money back, give them a refund during the holiday season with a note saying, "Thanks for being such a great tenant."
Monday, June 16, 2008
The Citron Updated - 50% Sold
After hitting the market only 50 days ago, we have now sold 50% of all available units!!!
Only 8 breathtaking units remain for sale including all four 2 bedroom units and two Penthouse floor plans.
Don't miss out on this great opportunity to own one of the finest condos available in the Los Angeles Area.
Only 8 breathtaking units remain for sale including all four 2 bedroom units and two Penthouse floor plans.
Don't miss out on this great opportunity to own one of the finest condos available in the Los Angeles Area.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
The Citron - New Lending Incentives!
Great news from our lender at the Citron complex...
Loans for a 5 year fixed, with zero points are now available at 4.875%!
That's right, 4.875% with no points!!!
This rate is incredibly low and can be a great money saver during the mortgate crisis we're in.
For more information, please don't hesitate to call Renee 323-459-6890
Loans for a 5 year fixed, with zero points are now available at 4.875%!
That's right, 4.875% with no points!!!
This rate is incredibly low and can be a great money saver during the mortgate crisis we're in.
For more information, please don't hesitate to call Renee 323-459-6890
Eminent Domain - Propositions 98 & 99
I just got my sample June 3rd ballot in the mail and since I don’t know any of the judges and/or politicians on the ballot, I figured I’d talk a little bit about something else on the ballot that I do know something about.
Initiatives 98 and 99 deal with real estate, particularly a subject called eminent domain. The government’s right to repossess private land for public use through a process known as condemnation. It’s a right that the government established in the 5th amendment that also calls for “just compensation,” usually market value for the property.
Traditionally, public use meant things like roads and schools. Over the past several decades, however, some believe the government has abused its power by routinely condemning property and turning it over to well-connected private developers as a way of subsidizing economic development and increasing tax revenues.
Some well-known examples would be the building of Dodger Stadium on Chavez Ravine or the expansion of Disneyland in Anaheim.
The main issue with eminent domain is what is actually considered a “public use”… Disneyland & Dodgers baseball vs. Brand new condos and/or homes?
The attached link gives another example of the use of eminent domain in California.
http://reason.tv/video/show/56.html
Now back to the actual initiatives:
Proposition 99 would forbid California redevelopment agencies and other government entities from using eminent domain to take homes, businesses and farms for private development, which in my opinion sounds great.
Prop 98 is a little trickier because it includes a provision that would phase out rent control and limits protection for our land, air, wildlife and coastlines, in addition to threatening our state water supply. According to our Governor, “it undermines California's ability to build dams, water delivery systems and other public works projects.”
While I would like to see an overhaul of our rent control regulations since it discourages renters from all the benefits of home-ownership and limits the government’s tax revenue, I believe the restrictions on our water supply, wildlife and air are more important to protect.
So join me in voting “No” on 98 and “Yes” on 99.
Initiatives 98 and 99 deal with real estate, particularly a subject called eminent domain. The government’s right to repossess private land for public use through a process known as condemnation. It’s a right that the government established in the 5th amendment that also calls for “just compensation,” usually market value for the property.
Traditionally, public use meant things like roads and schools. Over the past several decades, however, some believe the government has abused its power by routinely condemning property and turning it over to well-connected private developers as a way of subsidizing economic development and increasing tax revenues.
Some well-known examples would be the building of Dodger Stadium on Chavez Ravine or the expansion of Disneyland in Anaheim.
The main issue with eminent domain is what is actually considered a “public use”… Disneyland & Dodgers baseball vs. Brand new condos and/or homes?
The attached link gives another example of the use of eminent domain in California.
http://reason.tv/video/show/56.html
Now back to the actual initiatives:
Proposition 99 would forbid California redevelopment agencies and other government entities from using eminent domain to take homes, businesses and farms for private development, which in my opinion sounds great.
Prop 98 is a little trickier because it includes a provision that would phase out rent control and limits protection for our land, air, wildlife and coastlines, in addition to threatening our state water supply. According to our Governor, “it undermines California's ability to build dams, water delivery systems and other public works projects.”
While I would like to see an overhaul of our rent control regulations since it discourages renters from all the benefits of home-ownership and limits the government’s tax revenue, I believe the restrictions on our water supply, wildlife and air are more important to protect.
So join me in voting “No” on 98 and “Yes” on 99.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Los Angeles Goes "Green"
In honor of Earth Day, Los Angeles became the largest city in the US to join in the battle against global warming. The LA City Council unanimously adopted regulations that require builders of large commercial and residential developements to adhere to measures such as planting drought-resistant landscaping and using recycled materials and energy-efficient heating, cooling and lighting.
The law requires new commercial buildings and high-rise residential structures with more than 50,000 square feet of floor space to meet a nationally recognized "Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design" (LEED) standard. It also would cover major renovations and low-rise developments of 50 units or more. The rules would amount to preventing about 85,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions over the next five years, the equivalent of removing 15,000 cars from the roads.
For a city that houses over 10 million people and over 3.3 million housing units, it's not a bad start. Now let's hope we can convince small-time developers that the benefits of green building far outweigh the costs.
The law requires new commercial buildings and high-rise residential structures with more than 50,000 square feet of floor space to meet a nationally recognized "Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design" (LEED) standard. It also would cover major renovations and low-rise developments of 50 units or more. The rules would amount to preventing about 85,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions over the next five years, the equivalent of removing 15,000 cars from the roads.
For a city that houses over 10 million people and over 3.3 million housing units, it's not a bad start. Now let's hope we can convince small-time developers that the benefits of green building far outweigh the costs.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
The Citron Launch
Today, Landmark Realtors and Renee Zamir are extremely pleased to announce the listing of 16 brand new modern condominium units in the heart of the Beverly Grove Area near shops, restaurants and places of worship.
Unique and spacious floor plans with ultra modern and top of the line amenities. All units are corner units with hardwood floors throughout, Walker Zanger tiles, fireplaces, high ceilings, with great views and natural light. Complex has a breathtaking open courtyard with subterranean parking and security.
Choose from 3bedrooms/2 baths or 2 bedrooms/2 baths starting at $695,000.
357 N. Hayworth Ave. Fairfax at Beverly.
Grand opening on Tuesday April, 22 from 11-4pm and open houses every Saturday and Sunday from 1-4pm.
Own yours today!!!
http://www.circlepix.com/home/5NS6D6
Unique and spacious floor plans with ultra modern and top of the line amenities. All units are corner units with hardwood floors throughout, Walker Zanger tiles, fireplaces, high ceilings, with great views and natural light. Complex has a breathtaking open courtyard with subterranean parking and security.
Choose from 3bedrooms/2 baths or 2 bedrooms/2 baths starting at $695,000.
357 N. Hayworth Ave. Fairfax at Beverly.
Grand opening on Tuesday April, 22 from 11-4pm and open houses every Saturday and Sunday from 1-4pm.
Own yours today!!!
http://www.circlepix.com/home/5NS6D6
Monday, April 14, 2008
Spring "Green" Cleaning
Now that Passover is just around the corner and some of us are busy cleaning our homes, I thought some "green" cleaning tips for are in order. These little recipes can provide a cheap, easy and eco-friendly alternative to commercial cleaning products.
All Purpose Household Cleaner (good for counter tops, floors, walls, rugs & more):
1 quart warm water
1 tsp liquid hand soap
1 squeeze of a lemon
Clothing Stain Remover
1/2 tsp lemon juice
1/4 tsp cream of tartar
mix to create a paste, spread it over the stain and allow it to dry before washing clothes
Carpet Stain Remover
Baking soda or club soda
Mirror and Window Cleaner
1 Tsp rubbing alcohol
1/2 cub white vinegar
1 quart water
Newspaper
Combine the liquids and place in a spray bottle. Spray contents on windows or mirror and dry with newspaper
Paint Remover for Your Hands
Use Vegetable Oil instead of paint thinner
Hope these handy tips can be a cost effective and practical tool to help the environment.
All Purpose Household Cleaner (good for counter tops, floors, walls, rugs & more):
1 quart warm water
1 tsp liquid hand soap
1 squeeze of a lemon
Clothing Stain Remover
1/2 tsp lemon juice
1/4 tsp cream of tartar
mix to create a paste, spread it over the stain and allow it to dry before washing clothes
Carpet Stain Remover
Baking soda or club soda
Mirror and Window Cleaner
1 Tsp rubbing alcohol
1/2 cub white vinegar
1 quart water
Newspaper
Combine the liquids and place in a spray bottle. Spray contents on windows or mirror and dry with newspaper
Paint Remover for Your Hands
Use Vegetable Oil instead of paint thinner
Hope these handy tips can be a cost effective and practical tool to help the environment.
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