Crosslake, MN

HAFA is another one of those terms thrown about in Short Sale discussions and pronounced Hoffa or Halfa. It has not been the most successful of the Short Sale program attempts but is far more successful than the loan modification programs. No matter how you choose to pronounce it, the letters stand for Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternative. HAFA sets a structured time frame for the Short Sale process but does not always hit their own goals. None the less, the financial incentive to homeowner's is a powerful carrot to dangle as the journey is long and stressful to a successful closing. But when it does happen, it is sweet!

     This video speaks of love, sacrifice and bravery- both for those men and women in our armed forces and those they leave behind. Everyday those serving in our armed forces risk their lives to bring peace and stability to other regions of the world and to ensure that ours is kept here in the USA. They have marketable skills, they have training and educational backgrounds- they are employable- they could pursue an easier job back home, but they sacrifice for you and for me.  It costs them, it costs their families and I am so grateful that they willing go forth no matter what the cost. Their bravery and courage should be an example to us all.

     I want to say a thank you from my heart and know that I will do my small part to help the families in my area that bravely wait for their loved ones to come home.

 

 

 

In the Brainerd Lakes area of Minnesota, buying a home with the intent to fix it up is one of the best investments you can make. Whether you intend to make it your primary residence, a second home or a rental- there are many things that with some hard work you can tackle yourself. Our current Brainerd Lakes real estate market may allow you to get the home of your dreams without breaking the bank.

I will tell you that buying a fixer-upper can be a big challenge as there may be structural defects or other hidden problems. For those reasons, I always recommend an inspection. This service with a reliable and thorough home inspector is always worth the expense.

If you are planning to make structural changes to the home as in moving or taking out walls- remember that the work starts from the base up. Something needs to support every piece of the home and you may need professional advice when contemplating big changes.

The worst home in a great neighborhood is going to get you more dollars back than a great home in an undesirable location. Location is hard to change but in light of our recent tornadic activity, I will say that "nothing is set in stone".

With smaller fixes like cleaning, painting, sheet rock, flooring landscaping, and changing out hardware- you may well be up to the task with some background studies or the help of a friend. With major fixes like roofing, electrial and plumbing work make certain that you are not only well versed on how to do this, are fit enough to accomplish it and you have the right equipment. In most cases here, hire a professional!

Before buying, know that you have budgeted in for all these items an adequate amount and a cushion.

When looking at real estate in the beautiful Brainerd Lakes area have Kathleen Lordbock REALTOR® Keller Williams Realty Brainerd Lakes show you around. With a construction and design background she can help you envision what a fixer-upper could be- with some work and a low overall cost.

Look it's Vegas Bob and we don't like his kind around here ...

I was born and raised in Minnesota and these furry creatures use to be friends of mine but now having lived in Las Vegas for so many years their afraid of me.

What happened? I shower & change my clothes every day, brush my teeth, and do what ever I can to smell good. Nu Nu, Sherry and myself pulled up to these furry creatures in northern Minnesota and was able to take this great shot looking at us and then they started running, Nu Nu said they don't like me!

I use to talk to the animals and living in Las Vegas so long I have lost my touch!

Post & Pics by Robert Swetz (Vegas Bob) - All rights reserved - 2010