Christopher Shearer

The Short Sale

While a short sale may be a last resort for many homeowners facing foreclosure, it

also represents a great opportunity for potential home buyers and real estate

investors. This article is designed to help answer a few basic questions about the

substantial risk and reward involved in this extremely complex and often drawn out

process.

What is a Short Sale?

A short sale is a legally-binding agreement to allow a home to be sold for less than

the amount that is owed. And, while short sales are not by any means common or

easy, because of increasing inventory levels and foreclosures in some parts of the

country, lenders are much more eager to negotiate with borrowers who are having

trouble paying their mortgages. For potential home buyers and real estate investors,

a short sale also offers a great opportunity to purchase property at a significant discount.

However, don't expect a lot of help from the lender without first providing a sales contract from a qualified buyer and all

the information required by the lender's loss mitigation department.

Of course, lenders are not looking to bail out "flippers" or other borrowers who simply overextended themselves. In most

cases, a borrower must have suffered a serious financial hardship that directly caused him or her to default on the

mortgage: the loss of a job, a serious illness, or the death of a loved one.

A written declaration and supporting documentation demonstrating financial hardship will definitely be required by the

lender. This may include pay stubs, tax returns, and liquid asset statements, among other documentation.

Key Considerations to Keep in Mind

It's important to note that the difference between what is owed on a mortgage and the final amount the lender collects

after the costs of the sale, including real estate commissions and possibly other charges don't simply disappear in a short

sale. In the past, this deficiency or "canceled mortgage debt" was considered taxable income to the borrower. However,

thanks to the Mortgage Forgiveness Act of 2007, the tax burden for qualifying canceled mortgage debt (as high as 35%)

for primary residences only has been temporarily waived until the end of 2009.

If there are multiple liens against the property, all lien holders will have to be involved in the negotiation process, not just

the first lien holder. Therefore, communication and patience are essential components of any short sale. This is why an

experienced real estate agent and mortgage professional become so valuable to this process.

Call me. Let's discuss how we can market short sales and other foreclosure alternatives to potential buyers and

� Alabama (licensing exempt) � Alaska (licensing exempt) � Arizona (license 905747) � California (license

01317220) � Colorado (license LMB 100008577) � Florida (license CL0701012) � Hawaii (license pending) �

Idaho (license MBL-2522) � Illinois (license MB 6759265) � Indiana (licensing exempt) � Iowa (license 2008-0031)

� Kentucky (license MB20033) � Louisiana (license 2078) � Maryland (license 11213) � Maryland (license 11213)

� Massachusetts (license MB5206) � Michigan (license 0010583/0010767) � Minnesota (license 20421059) �

Missouri (licensing exempt) � Nebraska (license 1970) � Nevada (license 526) � New Mexico (license 1901) �

Oregon (license ML-2241) � Tennessee (license 2574) � Texas (license 75692) � Utah (license 558353) �

Washington (license 510-MB-18948) � Wisconsin (license 39432)

Christopher Shearer knows what it takes to be a successful lender. Since the start of our operation, our dedication to exceed your expectations and guarantee your satisfaction has made us what we are today. From start to finish in the loan process, we provide no less than exceptional service to our most prized possessions - our customers. Competition is Fierce We understand the loan business to be a fiercely competitive market. But we also believe that there is more to home financing than simply securing the lowest interest rate. That's why we ask a lot of questions and take the time to listen to your answers concerning your overall financial picture. We want to offer you the best option to achieve your financial goals, whether it's buying your first home, consolidating debt, or preparing for retirement. Your Trusted Advisor Funding your loan is just the beginning of our relationship with you. We want you as a lifetime customer, not just a one-time deal. We will continue to monitor interest rates and let you know when opportunities arise to improve your current situation. We will also stay in touch and continue to educate you so that we can be your ultimate resource for mortgage financing information-your Trusted Advisor-today, tomorrow, and beyond! We believe that everyone deserves to own a home. We can help you get there. Home Sweet Home We believe everyone deserves to own their home. We can help you get there. Choosing the right lender is a key element to managing your mortgage. As a mortgage professional, our goal is not only to provide you with a loan, but also to help you select the one most beneficial to you and your long-term goals. After that, we will help you manage that debt over time. Few lenders provide this type of ongoing, personalized service. We will help you save hundreds of dollars a month and increase your tax deductions so you can be debt-free. Kiss Your Debt Goodbye One of the greatest services we are privileged to offer our clients is debt consolidation. Why spend a significant portion of your monthly income on high interest loans that are not tax deductible? We will help you save hundreds of dollars a month and increase your tax deductions so that you can be debt-free and live the lifestyle you desire. Listening To Our Customers has made us Successful As a leader in the mortgage industry, we aim to deliver excellence in every area. Based on client feedback, we constantly strive to improve our systems and technology to improve our efficiency and success ratio. Because market conditions are constantly in flux, we keep our fingers on the pulse of mortgage backed securities to ensure that you get the best interest rate possible. A Loan made Just for You! Because mortgage loans are uniquely individual, we offer a wide range of residential loan programs tailored to your specific needs, including: • Adjustable Rate Mortgages • Fixed Rate Mortgages • First Time Home Buyer • Debt Consolidation • Non-owner Loans • Construction & Home Improvement Do you have any good testimonials that clients have provided you in the past? Be sure to add them here.

We have offices nationwide and cover all South Florida cities such as: * Aventura * Belle Glade * Boca Del Mar * Boca Raton * Boynton Beach * Brownsville * Coconut Creek * Cooper City * Coral Gables * Coral Terrace * Country Club * Country Walk * Cutler Bay * Dania Beach * Davie * Deerfield Beach * Delray Beach * Doral * Fountainbleau * Glenvar Heights * Greenacres * Hallandale Beach * Hamptons at Boca Raton * Hialeah Gardens * Homestead * Ives Estates * Jupiter * Kendale Lakes * Kendall West * Kendall * Key Biscayne * Kings Point * Lake Worth Corridor * Lake Worth * Lauderdale Lakes * Lauderhill * Leisure City * Lighthouse Point * Margate * Miami Beach * Miami Lakes * Miami Shores * Miami Springs * Miramar * North Lauderdale * North Miami Beach * North Miami * North Palm Beach * Oakland Park * Ojus * Olympia Heights * Opa-Locka * Palm Beach Gardens * Palm Beach * Palm Springs * Palmetto Bay * Palmetto Estates * Parkland * Pinecrest * Pinewood * Plantation * Princeton * Richmond West * Riviera Beach * Royal Palm Beach * Sandalfoot Cove * South Miami Heights * South Miami * Sunny Isles Beach * Sunrise * Sunset * Sweetwater * Tamarac * Tamiami * The Crossings * The Hammocks * Wellington * West Little River * West Park * Westchester * Weston * Westwood Lakes * Wilton Manors * Atlantis * Bal Harbour * Bay Harbor Islands * Belle Glade Camp * Biscayne Park * Boca Pointe * Boulevard Gardens * Briny Breezes * Broadview Park * Canal Point * Century Village * Cypress Lake * Dunes Road * El Portal * Fisher Island * Florida City * Franklin Park * Fremd Village-Padgett Island * Gladeview * Glen Ridge * Godfrey Road * Golden Beach * Golden Lakes * Golf * Goulds * Gulf Stream * Gun Club Estates * Haverhill * High Point * Highland Beach * Hillsboro Beach * Hillsboro Pines * Hillsboro Ranches * Homestead Base * Hypoluxo * Indian Creek * Islandia * Juno Beach * Juno Ridge * Jupiter Inlet Colony * Lake Belvedere Estates * Lake Clarke Shores * Lake Harbor * Lake Park * Lakes by the Bay * Lakeside Green * Lantana * Lauderdale-by-the-Sea * Lazy Lake * Limestone Creek * Manalapan * Mangonia Park * Medley * Mission Bay * Naranja * North Bay Village * Ocean Ridge * Pahokee * Palm Beach Shores * Palm Springs North * Pembroke Park * Plantation Mobile Home Park * Pompano Estates * Richmond Heights * Roosevelt Gardens * Royal Palm Estates * Schall Circle * Sea Ranch Lakes * Seminole Manor * South Bay * South Palm Beach * Southwest Ranches * Stacey Street * Sunshine Acres * Surfside * Tequesta * Three Lakes * University Park * Villages of Oriole * Virginia Gardens * Washington Park * West Miami * West Perrine * Westview * Whisper Walk

As well as the Colorado communities of Aspen * Vail * Glenwood Springs * Boulder * Grand Junction * Steamboat Springs

Identity Theft: 5 Tips to Protect Your Privacy The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) estimates that as many as 9 million Americans have their identities stolen each year. This means that an identity is stolen every 3 seconds, costing the average victim nearly $4,000 and nearly 175 hours to straighten out their problems and their credit. How can you protect yourself from the dangers of identity theft? Here are some suggestions. Conduct a Credit Check-up – Visit www.annualcreditreport.com to obtain a free credit report every 12 months. Review all three of your credit reports and look for any suspicious activity, unusual or inaccurate names or addresses, or any inquiries that were done without your knowledge. In many states, you may place a 90-day "Fraud Alert" on your credit report, which further restricts access to your credit information. Simply call one of the three main credit bureaus to activate the alert. Here are the toll-free numbers: Equifax 1-800-525-6285; Experian® 1-888-397-3742; or TransUnion® 1-800-680-7289. Don't Give It Up – Avoid falling prey to phishing scams, both over phone and through email. In a phishing scam, identity thieves pretend to be someone from your bank or a credit institution and simply ask you for your personal information. If someone contacts you and requests any personal information, don't give it to them. Verify who is requesting the data and why, and then call the institution yourself. One extra phone call could save you a lot of trouble and money. Stay off the Pharm – While phishing enables thieves to pilfer information from you, pharming is another kind of scam that consists of hijacking your computer and stealing your personal information. A pharming site is designed to look just like the website you're trying to visit. However, enter your information on this fake site and not only can it track your moves within it, it may also direct your computer to give up other personal information at a later time. Be sure you are visiting the correct site, that the address in the navigation bar is correct before entering any information. Return to Sender – Some scammers simply fill out a change of address form and divert your mail to another location. Others simply steal the mail they want right from your mailbox. The key to avoiding this scam is to know your statement delivery dates and pay close attention to any unusual delays in delivery. A lot of identity thieves do things the old-fashioned way: They rummage through your trash to collect your information that way. Be sure to shred any junk mail or other documents that may contain your personal information before you throw it away. Opt-out of Special Offers – Visit www.optoutprescreen.com to cut down on the pre-approved offers from credit card and insurance companies. It's also good idea to have your clients opt out as well, especially if they're thinking about buying a home. When people apply for a mortgage, they often become "trigger leads" to the credit bureau, who sell your clients' information to any number of companies. It only takes a few minutes to opt out, but it could spare your clients a ton of junk mail and could possibly save them from identity theft. Give me call. I have a great article on Trigger Leads you can give to your clients. � Alabama (licensing exempt) � Alaska (licensing exempt) � Arizona (license 905747) � California (license 01317220) � Colorado (license LMB 100008577) � Florida (license CL0701012) � Hawaii (license pending) � Idaho (license MBL-2522) � Illinois (license MB 6759265) � Indiana (licensing exempt) � Iowa (license 2008-0031) � Kentucky (license MB20033) � Louisiana (license 2078) � Maryland (license 11213) � Maryland (license 11213) � Massachusetts (license MB5206) � Michigan (license 0010583/0010767) � Minnesota (license 20421059) � Missouri (licensing exempt) � Nebraska (license 1970) � Nevada (license 526) � New Mexico (license 1901) � Oregon (license ML-2241) � Tennessee (license 2574) � Texas (license 75692) � Utah (license 558353) � Washington (license 510-MB-18948) � Wisconsin (license 39432)

Christopher Shearer knows what it takes to be a successful nationwide lender specializing in Colorado and Florida expert financial advising. We specialize in assisting high net-worth individuals with very exclusive properties located in Colorado and/or Florida. Since the start of our operation, our dedication to exceed your expectations and guarantee your satisfaction has made us what we are today. From start to finish in the loan process, we provide no less than exceptional service to our most prized possessions – our clients. Competition is Fierce We understand the loan business to be a fiercely competitive market. But we also believe that there is more to home financing than simply securing the lowest interest rate. That’s why we ask a lot of questions and take the time to listen to your answers concerning your overall financial picture. We want to offer you the best option to achieve your financial goals, whether it’s buying your first home, consolidating debt, or preparing for retirement. Your Trusted Advisor Funding your loan is just the beginning of our relationship with you. We want you as a lifetime customer, not just a one-time deal. We will continue to monitor interest rates and let you know when opportunities arise to improve your current situation. We will also stay in touch and continue to educate you so that we can be your ultimate resource for mortgage financing information—your Trusted Advisor—today, tomorrow, and beyond! We believe that everyone deserves to own a home. We can help you get there. Home Sweet Home We believe everyone deserves to own their home. We can help you get there. Choosing the right lender is a key element to managing your mortgage. As a mortgage professional, our goal is not only to provide you with a loan, but also to help you select the one most beneficial to you and your long-term goals. After that, we will help you manage that debt over time. Few lenders provide this type of ongoing, personalized service. We will help you save hundreds of dollars a month and increase your tax deductions so you can be debt-free. Kiss Your Debt Goodbye One of the greatest services we are privileged to offer our clients is debt consolidation. Why spend a significant portion of your monthly income on high interest loans that are not tax deductible? We will help you save hundreds of dollars a month and increase your tax deductions so that you can be debt-free and live the lifestyle you desire. Listening To Our Customers has made us Successful As a leader in the mortgage industry, we aim to deliver excellence in every area. Based on client feedback, we constantly strive to improve our systems and technology to improve our efficiency and success ratio. Because market conditions are constantly in flux, we keep our fingers on the pulse of mortgage backed securities to ensure that you get the best interest rate possible. A Loan made Just for You! Because mortgage loans are uniquely individual, we offer a wide range of residential loan programs tailored to your specific needs, including: • Adjustable Rate Mortgages • Fixed Rate Mortgages • First Time Home Buyer • Debt Consolidation • Non-owner Loans • Construction & Home Improvement

We have offices nationwide and cover all South Florida cities such as: * Aventura * Belle Glade * Boca Del Mar * Boca Raton * Boynton Beach * Brownsville * Coconut Creek * Cooper City * Coral Gables * Coral Terrace * Country Club * Country Walk * Cutler Bay * Dania Beach * Davie * Deerfield Beach * Delray Beach * Doral * Fountainbleau * Glenvar Heights * Greenacres * Hallandale Beach * Hamptons at Boca Raton * Hialeah Gardens * Homestead * Ives Estates * Jupiter * Kendale Lakes * Kendall West * Kendall * Key Biscayne * Kings Point * Lake Worth Corridor * Lake Worth * Lauderdale Lakes * Lauderhill * Leisure City * Lighthouse Point * Margate * Miami Beach * Miami Lakes * Miami Shores * Miami Springs * Miramar * North Lauderdale * North Miami Beach * North Miami * North Palm Beach * Oakland Park * Ojus * Olympia Heights * Opa-Locka * Palm Beach Gardens * Palm Beach * Palm Springs * Palmetto Bay * Palmetto Estates * Parkland * Pinecrest * Pinewood * Plantation * Princeton * Richmond West * Riviera Beach * Royal Palm Beach * Sandalfoot Cove * South Miami Heights * South Miami * Sunny Isles Beach * Sunrise * Sunset * Sweetwater * Tamarac * Tamiami * The Crossings * The Hammocks * Wellington * West Little River * West Park * Westchester * Weston * Westwood Lakes * Wilton Manors * Atlantis * Bal Harbour * Bay Harbor Islands * Belle Glade Camp * Biscayne Park * Boca Pointe * Boulevard Gardens * Briny Breezes * Broadview Park * Canal Point * Century Village * Cypress Lake * Dunes Road * El Portal * Fisher Island * Florida City * Franklin Park * Fremd Village-Padgett Island * Gladeview * Glen Ridge * Godfrey Road * Golden Beach * Golden Lakes * Golf * Goulds * Gulf Stream * Gun Club Estates * Haverhill * High Point * Highland Beach * Hillsboro Beach * Hillsboro Pines * Hillsboro Ranches * Homestead Base * Hypoluxo * Indian Creek * Islandia * Juno Beach * Juno Ridge * Jupiter Inlet Colony * Lake Belvedere Estates * Lake Clarke Shores * Lake Harbor * Lake Park * Lakes by the Bay * Lakeside Green * Lantana * Lauderdale-by-the-Sea * Lazy Lake * Limestone Creek * Manalapan * Mangonia Park * Medley * Mission Bay * Naranja * North Bay Village * Ocean Ridge * Pahokee * Palm Beach Shores * Palm Springs North * Pembroke Park * Plantation Mobile Home Park * Pompano Estates * Richmond Heights * Roosevelt Gardens * Royal Palm Estates * Schall Circle * Sea Ranch Lakes * Seminole Manor * South Bay * South Palm Beach * Southwest Ranches * Stacey Street * Sunshine Acres * Surfside * Tequesta * Three Lakes * University Park * Villages of Oriole * Virginia Gardens * Washington Park * West Miami * West Perrine * Westview * Whisper Walk

As well as the Colorado communities of Aspen * Vail * Glenwood Springs * Boulder * Grand Junction * Steamboat Springs

The Truth About Appraisals Knowing the Guidelines Solves the Mystery The appraisal process often baffles consumers. They may feel that their home is worth a higher dollar amount, and so the appraised value doesn't always make sense to them. It is important to know that the appraiser is completely independent from lenders, buyers, sellers, and Real Estate Agents, and that the guidelines to which they adhere are dictated by the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) and Fannie Mae. In most states, the mortgage lenders must also disclose the purpose of the appraisal, as each transaction carries its own set of rules. In essence, these important guidelines help appraisers put a fair market value on homes based on comparable sales in the same area, and the home must be bracketed in size and value. For example, there is no set dollar figure associated with a great view, pool, spa, bathroom upgrades, etc. If a homeowner installs a custom pool that cost them $30,000, but the local marketplace supports the value of a pool at $15,000, then that item will be bracketed as [$15,000] on the appraisal. Upgrades can usually be expressed at a higher percentage of their value in newer homes because the only way to obtain those upgrades was to put more money into the cost of building the home. On the other hand, the upgrading or remodeling of an older home is rarely reflected in full in the final appraisal. This is because typically 25-40% of the project involves demolition and the fixing of issues that aren't uncovered until the project has already begun, such as plumbing or wiring that may need updating. Ultimately, the value of the upgrades must be supported by comparable examples within the same marketplace. These comparisons must be drawn from current market activity within the last six months. This is a safeguard to prevent appraisers from attaching too high a value to the home in question, and opening up the appraisal for review. This guideline further states that appraisers can only base their opinion on the value of homes that have actually closed escrow. As a loan professional, I make a point to follow the appropriate guidelines at all times. This promotes a good relationship with the lender, and helps to create easier and much smoother closings for my borrowers. Call me if you or your clients would like more information on this subject. � Alabama (licensing exempt) � Alaska (licensing exempt) � Arizona (license 905747) � California (license 01317220) � Colorado (license LMB 100008577) � Florida (license CL0701012) � Hawaii (license pending) � Idaho (license MBL-2522) � Illinois (license MB 6759265) � Indiana (licensing exempt) � Iowa (license 2008-0031) � Kentucky (license MB20033) � Louisiana (license 2078) � Maryland (license 11213) � Maryland (license 11213) � Massachusetts (license MB5206) � Michigan (license 0010583/0010767) � Minnesota (license 20421059) � Missouri (licensing exempt) � Nebraska (license 1970) � Nevada (license 526) � New Mexico (license 1901) � Oregon (license ML-2241) � Tennessee (license 2574) � Texas (license 75692) � Utah (license 558353) � Washington (license 510-MB-18948) � Wisconsin (license 39432)

Christopher Shearer knows what it takes to be a successful nationwide lender specializing in Colorado and Florida expert financial advising. We specialize in assisting high net-worth individuals with very exclusive properties located in Colorado and/or Florida. Since the start of our operation, our dedication to exceed your expectations and guarantee your satisfaction has made us what we are today. From start to finish in the loan process, we provide no less than exceptional service to our most prized possessions – our clients. Competition is Fierce We understand the loan business to be a fiercely competitive market. But we also believe that there is more to home financing than simply securing the lowest interest rate. That’s why we ask a lot of questions and take the time to listen to your answers concerning your overall financial picture. We want to offer you the best option to achieve your financial goals, whether it’s buying your first home, consolidating debt, or preparing for retirement. Your Trusted Advisor Funding your loan is just the beginning of our relationship with you. We want you as a lifetime customer, not just a one-time deal. We will continue to monitor interest rates and let you know when opportunities arise to improve your current situation. We will also stay in touch and continue to educate you so that we can be your ultimate resource for mortgage financing information—your Trusted Advisor—today, tomorrow, and beyond! We believe that everyone deserves to own a home. We can help you get there. Home Sweet Home We believe everyone deserves to own their home. We can help you get there. Choosing the right lender is a key element to managing your mortgage. As a mortgage professional, our goal is not only to provide you with a loan, but also to help you select the one most beneficial to you and your long-term goals. After that, we will help you manage that debt over time. Few lenders provide this type of ongoing, personalized service. We will help you save hundreds of dollars a month and increase your tax deductions so you can be debt-free. Kiss Your Debt Goodbye One of the greatest services we are privileged to offer our clients is debt consolidation. Why spend a significant portion of your monthly income on high interest loans that are not tax deductible? We will help you save hundreds of dollars a month and increase your tax deductions so that you can be debt-free and live the lifestyle you desire. Listening To Our Customers has made us Successful As a leader in the mortgage industry, we aim to deliver excellence in every area. Based on client feedback, we constantly strive to improve our systems and technology to improve our efficiency and success ratio. Because market conditions are constantly in flux, we keep our fingers on the pulse of mortgage backed securities to ensure that you get the best interest rate possible. A Loan made Just for You! Because mortgage loans are uniquely individual, we offer a wide range of residential loan programs tailored to your specific needs, including: • Adjustable Rate Mortgages • Fixed Rate Mortgages • First Time Home Buyer • Debt Consolidation • Non-owner Loans

The Federal Reserve and Mortgage Rates Understanding What Causes Interest Rate Movement Consumers are often misled when it comes to the subject of the Federal Reserve and how it affects mortgage interest rates. Often the media is the culprit causing the confusion. In the last few years, the Fed has taken action that caused mortgage interest rates to move in a direction other than what consumers expected, because the media provided weak reporting on the subject. The Federal Reserve affects short-term interest rate maturities, the Fed Funds rate, and the Overnight Lending rate. These factors have a direct impact on the Prime rate. If you took only this into consideration, you may mistakenly conclude that changes made by the Fed will cause a similar movement in mortgage interest rates. However, mortgage interest rates are dictated by the trading of mortgage-backed securities, which trade on a daily basis. The real dynamic at the heart of interest rate movement is the relationship between stocks and bonds. Stocks and bonds compete for the same investment dollar on a daily basis. There is literally only so much money to be invested. When the Federal Reserve feels that interest rates need to be decreased in an effort to stimulate the economy, this reduction in rates can often cause a stock market rally. When the market becomes bullish, the money to invest in stocks comes from the selling of mortgage-backed securities. Unfortunately, selling mortgage-backed securities to fuel stock market rallies causes interest rates to go up, not down. Historically, there have been many times when the Federal Reserve has increased interest rates. Stocks then sell off in fear that the increase will affect corporate profit margins, and the liquidated stock assets need a place to park until the next rally comes along. The safe haven is found in mortgage-backed securities which cause mortgage rates to drop. The daily ebb and flow of money is what matters most when it comes to the movement of mortgage interest rates. I make it a point to continuously monitor interest rates for my clients, and advise them of opportunities to manage their mortgage debt at a better rate. This is the foundation of my business model as a Trusted Advisor. Let's discuss how we can better educate our clients on the largest purchase they'll ever make! � Alabama (licensing exempt) � Alaska (licensing exempt) � Arizona (license 905747) � California (license 01317220) � Colorado (license LMB 100008577) � Florida (license CL0701012) � Hawaii (license pending) � Idaho (license MBL-2522) � Illinois (license MB 6759265) � Indiana (licensing exempt) � Iowa (license 2008-0031) � Kentucky (license MB20033) � Louisiana (license 2078) � Maryland (license 11213) � Maryland (license 11213) � Massachusetts (license MB5206) � Michigan (license 0010583/0010767) � Minnesota (license 20421059) � Missouri (licensing exempt) � Nebraska (license 1970) � Nevada (license 526) � New Mexico (license 1901) � Oregon (license ML-2241) � Tennessee (license 2574) � Texas (license 75692) � Utah (license 558353) � Washington (license 510-MB-18948) � Wisconsin (license 39432)

Christopher Shearer knows what it takes to be a successful nationwide lender specializing in Colorado and Florida expert financial advising. We specialize in assisting high net-worth individuals with very exclusive properties located in Colorado and/or Florida. Since the start of our operation, our dedication to exceed your expectations and guarantee your satisfaction has made us what we are today. From start to finish in the loan process, we provide no less than exceptional service to our most prized possessions – our clients. Competition is Fierce We understand the loan business to be a fiercely competitive market. But we also believe that there is more to home financing than simply securing the lowest interest rate. That’s why we ask a lot of questions and take the time to listen to your answers concerning your overall financial picture. We want to offer you the best option to achieve your financial goals, whether it’s buying your first home, consolidating debt, or preparing for retirement. Your Trusted Advisor Funding your loan is just the beginning of our relationship with you. We want you as a lifetime customer, not just a one-time deal. We will continue to monitor interest rates and let you know when opportunities arise to improve your current situation. We will also stay in touch and continue to educate you so that we can be your ultimate resource for mortgage financing information—your Trusted Advisor—today, tomorrow, and beyond! We believe that everyone deserves to own a home. We can help you get there. Home Sweet Home We believe everyone deserves to own their home. We can help you get there. Choosing the right lender is a key element to managing your mortgage. As a mortgage professional, our goal is not only to provide you with a loan, but also to help you select the one most beneficial to you and your long-term goals. After that, we will help you manage that debt over time. Few lenders provide this type of ongoing, personalized service. We will help you save hundreds of dollars a month and increase your tax deductions so you can be debt-free. Kiss Your Debt Goodbye One of the greatest services we are privileged to offer our clients is debt consolidation. Why spend a significant portion of your monthly income on high interest loans that are not tax deductible? We will help you save hundreds of dollars a month and increase your tax deductions so that you can be debt-free and live the lifestyle you desire. Listening To Our Customers has made us Successful As a leader in the mortgage industry, we aim to deliver excellence in every area. Based on client feedback, we constantly strive to improve our systems and technology to improve our efficiency and success ratio. Because market conditions are constantly in flux, we keep our fingers on the pulse of mortgage backed securities to ensure that you get the best interest rate possible. A Loan made Just for You! Because mortgage loans are uniquely individual, we offer a wide range of residential loan programs tailored to your specific needs, including: • Adjustable Rate Mortgages • Fixed Rate Mortgages • First Time Home Buyer • Debt Consolidation • Non-owner Loans • Construction & Home Improvement

We have offices nationwide and cover all South Florida cities such as: * Aventura * Belle Glade * Boca Del Mar * Boca Raton * Boynton Beach * Brownsville * Coconut Creek * Cooper City * Coral Gables * Coral Terrace * Country Club * Country Walk * Cutler Bay * Dania Beach * Davie * Deerfield Beach * Delray Beach * Doral * Fountainbleau * Glenvar Heights * Greenacres * Hallandale Beach * Hamptons at Boca Raton * Hialeah Gardens * Homestead * Ives Estates * Jupiter * Kendale Lakes * Kendall West * Kendall * Key Biscayne * Kings Point * Lake Worth Corridor * Lake Worth * Lauderdale Lakes * Lauderhill * Leisure City * Lighthouse Point * Margate * Miami Beach * Miami Lakes * Miami Shores * Miami Springs * Miramar * North Lauderdale * North Miami Beach * North Miami * North Palm Beach * Oakland Park * Ojus * Olympia Heights * Opa-Locka * Palm Beach Gardens * Palm Beach * Palm Springs * Palmetto Bay * Palmetto Estates * Parkland * Pinecrest * Pinewood * Plantation * Princeton * Richmond West * Riviera Beach * Royal Palm Beach * Sandalfoot Cove * South Miami Heights * South Miami * Sunny Isles Beach * Sunrise * Sunset * Sweetwater * Tamarac * Tamiami * The Crossings * The Hammocks * Wellington * West Little River * West Park * Westchester * Weston * Westwood Lakes * Wilton Manors * Atlantis * Bal Harbour * Bay Harbor Islands * Belle Glade Camp * Biscayne Park * Boca Pointe * Boulevard Gardens * Briny Breezes * Broadview Park * Canal Point * Century Village * Cypress Lake * Dunes Road * El Portal * Fisher Island * Florida City * Franklin Park * Fremd Village-Padgett Island * Gladeview * Glen Ridge * Godfrey Road * Golden Beach * Golden Lakes * Golf * Goulds * Gulf Stream * Gun Club Estates * Haverhill * High Point * Highland Beach * Hillsboro Beach * Hillsboro Pines * Hillsboro Ranches * Homestead Base * Hypoluxo * Indian Creek * Islandia * Juno Beach * Juno Ridge * Jupiter Inlet Colony * Lake Belvedere Estates * Lake Clarke Shores * Lake Harbor * Lake Park * Lakes by the Bay * Lakeside Green * Lantana * Lauderdale-by-the-Sea * Lazy Lake * Limestone Creek * Manalapan * Mangonia Park * Medley * Mission Bay * Naranja * North Bay Village * Ocean Ridge * Pahokee * Palm Beach Shores * Palm Springs North * Pembroke Park * Plantation Mobile Home Park * Pompano Estates * Richmond Heights * Roosevelt Gardens * Royal Palm Estates * Schall Circle * Sea Ranch Lakes * Seminole Manor * South Bay * South Palm Beach * Southwest Ranches * Stacey Street * Sunshine Acres * Surfside * Tequesta * Three Lakes * University Park * Villages of Oriole * Virginia Gardens * Washington Park * West Miami * West Perrine * Westview * Whisper Walk

As well as the Colorado communities of Aspen * Vail * Glenwood Springs * Boulder * Grand Junction * Steamboat Springs

Six Tax Breaks Every Homeowner Should Know Benjamin Franklin once said, "In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes." More than 200 years later, this certainly holds true. And while being a homeowner won't add years to your life, the modern tax code has a number of benefits certain to make your tax bill lower. The following are a few ways your CPA or Tax Preparer can help you save: Take an interest in your mortgage interest – Statistics show that only about half of homeowners claim this valuable deduction. Make sure you're one of them. On average, qualified American homeowners save about $2,000 per return by deducting mortgage interest. And when added up over the life of the loan, this can make a big difference in your retirement savings. This is a huge break that renters don't get! So take advantage of it. Don't forget about the points – Points paid to refinance your home are also fully deductible throughout the life of the loan. For example, let's say in February of this year you refinanced your home for a new 20-year loan (or 240 months) and you paid $3,000 in points. By the end of this year, you can write off $125.00 for those 10 months (March through December). Beginning next year, of course, and each year thereafter, you can write off the full $150.00 until the points have been fully deducted. It's important to note that buyers can also deduct mortgage points that are paid by the seller, as long as the cost basis of the property is reduced by the amount of the seller-paid points. Old points are as good as new – Unamortized points from old refinancing are deductible in the year of a new refinance. Using the above example, let's say rates dropped again and you refinanced again in February of the next year and paid $2,400 in points. The remaining balance of the points on the old loan, $2,875, is fully deductible – plus the money you could deduct for any qualifying mortgage payments made toward the new points. Sell Your House – While points are not deductible for sellers, you can exclude as much as $250,000 in gain ($500,000 on a joint return) when you sell your primary home (your principal residence for two of the last five years). If you don't qualify for the two-year rule, you can get a partial exclusion if the sale of your home is the result of either qualifying changes of employment, health reasons, or other unforeseen circumstances. Casualty deductions – Floods, forest fires, hurricanes, earthquakes and other natural disasters can be devastating, especially to homeowners. Ask your CPA how you can take deductions on casualty losses, even if you collected insurance. In addition, if the President declares your area a disaster area, you have even more options. New $7,500 tax credit for first–timers – The government has created a temporary monetary incentive, a tax credit for first-time home buyers (that's anyone who hasn't owned a home in the last three years), as a tool to stimulate the housing market. The tax credit (not a tax deduction) will be 10% of the purchase price of a home, up to a maximum of $7,500. In other words, the government is providing first-time home buyers an interest-free loan to help them buy a home! There are, of course, income limits to qualify for this incentive, and other important details, but give us a call, and we'll see if you can take advantage of a tax gift that even Ben Franklin could appreciate. Remember, this, or any article you might read on your own, should never serve as tax advice. Always consult with a qualified CPA or Tax Preparer before making any tax decisions. If you need a referral, give us a call, and we'll be glad to give you the names of the reliable professionals we work with on a regular basis.

We have offices nationwide and cover all South Florida cities such as: * Aventura * Belle Glade * Boca Del Mar * Boca Raton * Boynton Beach * Brownsville * Coconut Creek * Cooper City * Coral Gables * Coral Terrace * Country Club * Country Walk * Cutler Bay * Dania Beach * Davie * Deerfield Beach * Delray Beach * Doral * Fountainbleau * Glenvar Heights * Greenacres * Hallandale Beach * Hamptons at Boca Raton * Hialeah Gardens * Homestead * Ives Estates * Jupiter * Kendale Lakes * Kendall West * Kendall * Key Biscayne * Kings Point * Lake Worth Corridor * Lake Worth * Lauderdale Lakes * Lauderhill * Leisure City * Lighthouse Point * Margate * Miami Beach * Miami Lakes * Miami Shores * Miami Springs * Miramar * North Lauderdale * North Miami Beach * North Miami * North Palm Beach * Oakland Park * Ojus * Olympia Heights * Opa-Locka * Palm Beach Gardens * Palm Beach * Palm Springs * Palmetto Bay * Palmetto Estates * Parkland * Pinecrest * Pinewood * Plantation * Princeton * Richmond West * Riviera Beach * Royal Palm Beach * Sandalfoot Cove * South Miami Heights * South Miami * Sunny Isles Beach * Sunrise * Sunset * Sweetwater * Tamarac * Tamiami * The Crossings * The Hammocks * Wellington * West Little River * West Park * Westchester * Weston * Westwood Lakes * Wilton Manors * Atlantis * Bal Harbour * Bay Harbor Islands * Belle Glade Camp * Biscayne Park * Boca Pointe * Boulevard Gardens * Briny Breezes * Broadview Park * Canal Point * Century Village * Cypress Lake * Dunes Road * El Portal * Fisher Island * Florida City * Franklin Park * Fremd Village-Padgett Island * Gladeview * Glen Ridge * Godfrey Road * Golden Beach * Golden Lakes * Golf * Goulds * Gulf Stream * Gun Club Estates * Haverhill * High Point * Highland Beach * Hillsboro Beach * Hillsboro Pines * Hillsboro Ranches * Homestead Base * Hypoluxo * Indian Creek * Islandia * Juno Beach * Juno Ridge * Jupiter Inlet Colony * Lake Belvedere Estates * Lake Clarke Shores * Lake Harbor * Lake Park * Lakes by the Bay * Lakeside Green * Lantana * Lauderdale-by-the-Sea * Lazy Lake * Limestone Creek * Manalapan * Mangonia Park * Medley * Mission Bay * Naranja * North Bay Village * Ocean Ridge * Pahokee * Palm Beach Shores * Palm Springs North * Pembroke Park * Plantation Mobile Home Park * Pompano Estates * Richmond Heights * Roosevelt Gardens * Royal Palm Estates * Schall Circle * Sea Ranch Lakes * Seminole Manor * South Bay * South Palm Beach * Southwest Ranches * Stacey Street * Sunshine Acres * Surfside * Tequesta * Three Lakes * University Park * Villages of Oriole * Virginia Gardens * Washington Park * West Miami * West Perrine * Westview * Whisper Walk As well as the Colorado communities of Aspen * Vail * Glenwood Springs * Boulder * Grand Junction * Steamboat Springs